Top street food cities and local culinary markets
Top street food cities and local culinary markets
Best cities for open-air markets and street food
The best street food destinations treat the cart, stall or hawker counter as a serious culinary format rather than a budget substitute for a real meal. In cities with strong street food cultures, some of the most accomplished cooking happens over a single burner, refined across generations by vendors who specialise in one dish and nothing else.
The destinations here range from night markets that operate as the social centre of a neighbourhood to roadside stalls with a queue forming before the food is even ready. Some cities scatter their best food across dozens of unmarked spots. Others concentrate it in a single famous market.
Going where the locals queue is usually the most reliable strategy and the cities on this list are where that instinct tends to pay off most consistently.
Lists by region
Worldwide (212)
Africa (15)
Asia (128)
Europe (19)
North America (30)
Oceania (10)
South America (13)
City in Japan
Osaka
Castle, neon canals and street food
Locals call this city Japan's kitchen, a nod to its long reputation for serious eating. Takoyaki, octopus filled batter balls, get grilled on street corners across Dotonbori. Visitors can slurp okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake cooked tableside at counter restaurants. Kuromon Market supplies chefs with seafood, produce and knives sold by speciality vendors.
City in Mexico
Mexico City
Vibrant Culture, History and Street Food
Street tacos from corner stands compete for attention with some of Latin America's finest tasting menus. Chef Enrique Olvera helped draw global attention to Mexican fine dining with Pujol. Visitors can sample mole, a complex sauce built from dozens of ingredients, at markets. Mezcalerias pour agave spirits from small producers across several southern states.
City in United States
Los Angeles
The city of stars, beaches and dreams
Food trucks parked outside studios serve tacos alongside decorated tasting menus. Korean barbecue restaurants in Koreatown grill meat tableside over charcoal or gas. Visitors can eat at a strip mall counter one night and a chef's table the next. Farmers markets across the city supply produce to some of its most ambitious kitchens.
City in Morocco
Marrakech
A vibrant maze of colors and spices
Jemaa el-Fnaa square fills each evening with food stalls, musicians and storytellers. Tagines simmer slowly at stands selling spiced lamb and vegetable stews. Visitors can shop for lanterns and leather goods in the souks' narrow, winding lanes. Snail soup stalls, a local speciality, operate at the square's edges after dark.
City in Israel
Tel Aviv
Vibrant Beaches and Nonstop Energy
Hummus and falafel stands draw long queues at lunch across nearly every neighbourhood. Shuk HaCarmel market sells produce, spices and baked goods late into the afternoon. Visitors can pair fresh Mediterranean seafood with a rooftop view near the beach. Modern Israeli cooking here blends Middle Eastern, North African and European influences.
District in Hanoi
Old Quarter
Hanoi’s Timeless Cultural Maze
Hanoi's oldest district packs narrow streets with vendors selling a different speciality on each block. Plastic stools spill onto pavements as diners eat bun cha and grilled pork. Visitors can sample egg coffee, whipped with yolk and condensed milk, at a nearby cafe. Night market stalls sell snacks and drinks well after the shops close.
City in Taiwan
Taipei
A vibrant blend of old and new
This capital's night markets serve stinky tofu, oyster omelets and bubble tea past midnight. Din Tai Fung, famous for soup dumplings, opened its original location in this city. Visitors can pair street snacks with a sit down meal nearby. Teahouses in the hills above the city serve oolong grown on nearby slopes.
City in Turkey
Istanbul
Where East meets West in stunning contrast
Spice bazaars here have traded saffron, sumac and dried fruit since the Ottoman era. Fish sandwiches sold from boats docked at the Golden Horn remain a classic street meal. Visitors can cross between European and Asian sides for different regional specialities. Baklava shops near the old city still layer pastry using old family recipes.
City in Serbia
Belgrade
Where history, nightlife and the Danube meet
Cevapi, grilled minced meat sausages, remain a beloved street food sold from grill stands citywide. Bakeries sell burek, a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, each morning. Visitors can sample plate sized portions of grilled meat at a market stall downtown. Kafanas, traditional taverns, serve hearty regional dishes alongside strong plum brandy.
City in Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
A fusion of cultures and skyscrapers
Hawker centres here bring together Malay, Chinese and Indian cooking under one roof. Nasi lemak, coconut rice served with sambal and fried anchovies, remains a breakfast staple. Visitors can sample roti canai and curry at a stall before browsing nearby markets. Satay skewers grilled over charcoal are sold at stalls well into the night.
City in India
Ahmedabad
Where heritage meets modern India
Manek Chowk transforms from a jewellery market by day into a food market each night. Dhokla, a steamed savoury cake, remains a defining Gujarati snack sold across the city. Visitors can sample dozens of vegetarian street dishes without repeating a single stall. Khaman and fafda appear at breakfast carts throughout the old walled city.
Island in South Korea
Jeju Island
Nature's Island Paradise
Black pork, raised on this volcanic island, gets grilled at restaurants near the coast. Haenyeo, traditional female divers, still harvest abalone and sea urchin from nearby waters. Visitors can sample hallabong, a sweet citrus fruit grown only on this island. Markets sell fresh seafood pulled from the surrounding waters each morning.
City in Thailand
Chiang Mai
Ancient temples and mountain escapes
Khao soi, egg noodles in curry broth topped with crispy noodles, defines this city's cooking. Sunday walking street fills the old town with food stalls each week. Visitors can sample sai oua, a herb packed sausage, grilled at market stands. Warorot Market sells produce, spices and dried goods from the surrounding northern hills.
City in Philippines
Cebu City
History, Beaches and Adventure
Lechon, whole roasted pig with crackling skin, remains this city's most celebrated speciality. Larsian food park gathers dozens of grill stalls serving skewered meat each evening. Visitors can sample puso, rice wrapped in woven palm leaves, at a market stall. Dried mangoes and other local sweets get sold at stands throughout the city.
City in China
Kunming
Spring City with Eternal Blossoms
Crossing the bridge noodles, a rice noodle soup with a layered broth, originated in this region. Yunnan cuisine here leans on wild mushrooms foraged from the surrounding highlands. Visitors can sample rushan, a grilled dairy cheese, from vendors near the old town. Flower markets sell edible blossoms used in several regional speciality dishes.
City in Myanmar
Mandalay
Ancient culture, temples and tradition
Mohinga, a fish based noodle soup, remains Myanmar's most beloved breakfast dish here. Street stalls sell tea leaf salad, tossed with fried beans and dried shrimp. Visitors can sample shan noodles at a market stall near the old palace walls. Tea houses across the city pair snacks with strong, sweet milk tea.
City in United States
San Francisco
Iconic bridges, rolling hills and vibrant culture
Sourdough bread, shaped by wild yeast from the bay's climate, dates to the gold rush. Chinatown holds one of the oldest and largest Chinese communities outside Asia. Visitors can pair fresh crab at the wharf with dim sum in Chinatown nearby. Farmers markets supply chefs with produce grown across the Bay Area.
City in Malaysia
Ipoh
Colonial Charm and Caves of Wonder
This city's white coffee, filtered through a butter roasted blend, remains its signature drink. Bean sprout chicken, a local speciality, draws diners to old town coffee shops each day. Visitors can sample dim sum at a market stall before browsing nearby heritage buildings. Limestone caves outside town shelter temples alongside small food vendors.
City in Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City
A chaotic blend of history and energy
Banh mi vendors here fill baguettes with pate, pickled vegetables and grilled pork each morning. French colonial influence still shows in the city's bread, coffee and pastry traditions. Visitors can sample com tam, broken rice with pork, at a pavement stall. Rooftop bars above the city pair skyline views with modern Vietnamese tasting menus.
District in Hong Kong
Kowloon
Vibrant streets, markets and skyline views
Fa Yuen Street in Mong Kok packs food stalls between market vendors selling clothes and goods. Congee shops nearby have served the rice porridge to regulars for generations. Visitors can sample claypot rice and curry fish balls at stalls along the strip. Yau Ma Tei's wholesale fruit market operates through the early morning hours.
City in Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
The heartbeat of Brazil's coast
Feijoada, a black bean stew with pork, remains a traditional Saturday meal across the city. Churrascarias serve skewered meats tableside, carved directly onto diners' plates. Visitors can pair fresh coconut water with grilled fish at a beachfront kiosk. Cachaca, distilled from sugarcane, forms the base of the city's classic caipirinha.
City in Sri Lanka
Colombo
A Colorful Blend of Old and New
Kottu roti, chopped flatbread stir fried with vegetables and meat, gets cooked on loud metal griddles. Street stalls sell hoppers, bowl shaped rice pancakes, at breakfast across the city. Visitors can sample short eats, small savoury pastries, at a bakery counter. Fish markets near the harbour sell the morning's catch to nearby restaurants.
Country
Jamaica
Vibrant culture meets pristine beaches
Jerk chicken, marinated in scotch bonnet and pimento, remains this island's most famous street food. Roadside stands sell it grilled slowly over pimento wood coals across the countryside. Visitors can sample patties, flaky pastries filled with spiced meat, at a bakery. Markets sell tropical fruit and callaloo greens brought in from surrounding farms.
City in India
Kolkata
The Cultural Heart of India
Kathi rolls, flatbread wrapped around spiced meat or paneer, originated at street stalls here. Sweet shops here specialise in rasgulla and other syrup soaked milk based desserts. Visitors can sample puchka, crisp shells filled with spiced tangy water, at a stand. New Market sells produce, spices and baked goods across its colonial era halls.
City in Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu
Gateway to Borneo’s wild beauty
Night markets along the waterfront sell grilled seafood pulled fresh from nearby boats. Filipino Market sells fish and produce beneath a covered hall near the harbour. Visitors can sample hinava, a citrus cured raw fish dish, at a local stall. Sabahan cuisine here blends indigenous, Malay and Chinese culinary influences.
Island in Tanzania
Zanzibar
Turquoise Waters and Spice Perfume
Zanzibar pizza, a stuffed and folded street snack, gets grilled on flat iron griddles. Spice tours across the island visit farms growing cloves, cinnamon and vanilla. Visitors can sample fresh seafood at Stone Town's night market along the waterfront. Markets sell dried fish, produce and spices brought in from across the island.
Town in Vietnam
Hoi An
Charming Lanterns and Timeless Streets
Cao lau, noodles said to require water from a local well, defines the town's cooking. Lantern lit night markets sell banh mi and grilled skewers along the riverfront. Visitors can sample white rose dumplings, a delicate speciality found only here. Central Market sells produce and prepared food beneath a covered hall by the river.
City in India
Mumbai
India's bustling coastal metropolis
Vada pav, a spiced potato fritter in a bun, remains this city's most beloved street food. Chowpatty Beach fills each evening with vendors selling bhel puri and pani puri. Visitors can sample dabbawala delivered lunches, a system famous for its precision. Crawford Market sells produce, spices and imported goods beneath a Victorian era hall.
City in India
Pune
Culture, history and green escapes
Misal pav, a spicy sprouted bean curry served with bread, remains this city's signature dish. Bhelpuri and other chaat snacks get sold from carts near the city's main squares. Visitors can sample vada pav, a spiced potato fritter sandwich, at a stall. Mandai Market sells produce and spices brought in from the surrounding countryside.
Town in Cambodia
Siem Reap
Gateway to Ancient Temples and Culture
Night markets here sell fish amok and grilled skewers alongside handmade crafts. Khmer barbecue restaurants let diners grill meat tableside over charcoal braziers. Visitors can sample fried spiders and crickets at a stall near Pub Street. Old Market sells produce, dried fish and spices across its crowded, covered lanes.
City in Canada
Montreal
A city of festivals, food and culture
Poutine, fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, is this city's beloved comfort food. Bagel shops here bake in wood fired ovens, a method distinct from New York's. Visitors can sample smoked meat sandwiches at a deli serving the dish for decades. Jean Talon Market sells produce and prepared food across its crowded stalls.
City in Brazil
São Paulo
A vibrant mix of culture and cuisine
Immigrant communities have shaped this city's food scene, from Italian trattorias to Japanese izakayas. Feijoada, a hearty bean stew, remains a traditional Saturday meal across the city. Visitors can pair a churrascaria feast with dessert at a Japanese Brazilian bakery. Coffee culture here draws on beans grown across the surrounding countryside.
City in United States
Washington, D.C.
Capital of History and Culture
Half smokes, a local sausage speciality, remain a beloved street food across the city. Immigrant neighbourhoods have shaped entire dining scenes, from Ethiopian to Salvadoran cooking. Visitors can pair a food truck lunch with cocktails at a bar near the monuments. Farmers markets supply chefs with produce grown across the surrounding Chesapeake region.
City in South Korea
Seoul
Where Tradition Meets High-Tech Marvels
Korean barbecue restaurants grill meat tableside over charcoal or gas at nearly every corner. Street food markets sell tteokbokki and other spicy snacks well into the night. Visitors can pair a market meal with a late night visit to a food stall. Fermented kimchi, made in dozens of regional variations, appears at nearly every meal.
City in Greece
Athens
Where ancient ruins meet urban energy
Souvlaki stands sell grilled meat skewers wrapped in pita across nearly every neighbourhood. Central Market sells fish, meat and produce beneath a restored nineteenth century iron roof. Visitors can sample loukoumades, honey soaked fried dough, at a stall near Monastiraki. Bougatsa, a custard filled pastry, remains a popular breakfast found at bakeries citywide.
City in Thailand
Bangkok
The city of contrasts and chaos
Street stalls here serve everything from pad thai to crab curry within one block. Chinatown's Yaowarat Road turns into a food market each evening under neon signs. Visitors can sample mango sticky rice from a vendor before boat noodles nearby. Floating markets outside the city sell produce and snacks from wooden boats.
City in Australia
Melbourne
The heart of culture and coffee
Laneways across the city hide small cafes credited with helping shape modern espresso culture. Queen Victoria Market sells produce, meat and prepared food across its historic sheds. Visitors can brunch at a hatted restaurant before dinner at a Chinatown institution. Greek, Vietnamese and Italian immigration has shaped entire neighbourhoods around cuisine.
City in Japan
Tokyo
Japan's capital of temples, towers and food
Sushi counters seating fewer than ten guests often require reservations booked months ahead. Ramen shops citywide serve broths ranging from light shoyu to rich pork bone. Visitors can pair a ramen lunch with a stroll through Tsukiji's outer market. Izakayas tucked beneath train tracks serve skewers and drinks well past midnight.
City in Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala
Colonial Charm and Volcanic Views
Cobbled streets here hold market stalls selling tamales wrapped in banana leaves. Chocolate shops sell drinks made from cacao grown in the surrounding volcanic highlands. Visitors can sample pepian, a spiced meat stew, at a family run comedor near the plaza. Coffee stands nearby brew beans grown on farms visible from the town's edge.
Region in India
Goa
Beaches, Culture and Portuguese Heritage
Beach shacks here grill fresh caught fish and prawns within steps of the sand. Vindaloo, a fiery pork curry, reflects the region's Portuguese colonial influence. Visitors can sample bebinca, a layered coconut cake, at a bakery in the old quarter. Fish markets each morning sell the night's catch to nearby restaurants and stalls.
City in Senegal
Dakar
Vibrant markets and historic waterfront charm
Thieboudienne, rice cooked with fish and vegetables, remains Senegal's most beloved dish. Street vendors sell grilled fish and yassa, a spiced onion sauce, at market stalls. Visitors can sample bissap, a hibiscus drink, from carts along busy corners. Sandaga Market sells produce, spices and fabric brought in from across the region.
City in Colombia
Medellín
The City of Eternal Spring
Bandeja paisa, a hearty plate of beans, rice and meat, remains this region's signature dish. Street vendors sell arepas and empanadas from carts scattered across busy corners. Visitors can sample fresh tropical fruit at a market before lunch nearby. Mondongo, a tripe soup, appears at traditional restaurants across the city.
City in Israel
Jerusalem
Ancient History Meets Modern Culture
Mahane Yehuda market sells produce, spices and baked goods across its covered, bustling lanes. Sabich, a pita stuffed with fried aubergine and egg, remains a beloved street food. Visitors can sample fresh sesame bread rings sold by vendors near the Old City walls. Hummus shops nearby have served the same recipe for generations of regulars.
City in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa
Vibrant capital where history meets modernity
Injera, a spongy flatbread, gets torn by hand to scoop up spiced stews. Coffee ceremonies here involve roasting green beans over charcoal before brewing. Visitors can sample kitfo, minced raw beef seasoned with spiced butter, locally. Merkato, one of Africa's largest open air markets, sells spices and grain by the sack.
Island in United States
Oahu
Hawaii’s Vibrant Island Adventure
Poke bowls here get built from raw fish tossed with soy, sesame and seaweed. Food trucks parked along the North Shore serve plate lunches piled with rice and meat. Visitors can sample malasadas, fried Portuguese doughnuts, at a bakery downtown. Chinatown's markets sell tropical produce and dried goods brought in from across the islands.
City in Chile
Santiago
A vibrant city between mountains
Completos, hot dogs piled with avocado, tomato and mayonnaise, remain a beloved street food. Mercado Central sells fresh seafood pulled from the nearby Pacific coast each morning. Visitors can sample empanadas de pino, filled with beef and olives, at a stall. Vineyards in the surrounding valleys supply wine served across the city's restaurants.
Town in Turkey
Fethiye
Turquoise Coast’s Hidden Gem
Harbour restaurants here grill the day's catch within sight of docked fishing boats. Weekly markets sell dried fruit, spices and olives grown across the surrounding hills. Visitors can sample gozleme, a stuffed flatbread, cooked fresh on a griddle nearby. Turkish breakfast spreads here include dozens of small dishes served at once.
City in Argentina
Salta
Colonial Charm and Andean Landscapes
Empanadas salteñas, baked with a spiced beef filling, remain this region's signature street food. Humitas, corn wrapped in husks and steamed, appear at markets across the province. Visitors can sample locro, a hearty corn and bean stew, at a market stall. Vineyards in the surrounding highlands supply wine served alongside grilled meats.
City in Kenya
Mombasa
Swahili Coasts Meet Sun-Soaked Shores
Biryani here reflects centuries of trade between this coastal city and the Arabian peninsula. Street vendors grill mishkaki, spiced skewered meat, over charcoal each evening. Visitors can sample mahamri, fried coconut bread, at a stall near the old town. Coconut appears throughout the local Swahili cooking, from curries to sweet snacks.
City in China
Changsha
Ancient Roots, Spicy Eats, Modern Buzz
Stinky tofu fried in a spicy black batter remains a defining street snack across this city. Night markets sell crayfish tossed in numbing Hunan chilli sauce at outdoor tables. Visitors can sample chou doufu at a stall before browsing nearby food streets. Hunan cuisine here leans heavily on chilli, garlic and smoked, cured meats.
City in Morocco
Casablanca
Modern Vibes and Rich Traditions
Central Market sells fresh fish, olives and spices beneath a covered colonial era hall. Street stalls sell msemen, a layered flatbread, alongside sweet mint tea each morning. Visitors can sample grilled sardines at a market stall before browsing spice vendors nearby. Snail soup stands, a local speciality, operate on street corners after dark.
City in Puerto Rico
San Juan
Colorful history meets Caribbean cool
Mofongo, mashed fried plantain often stuffed with meat, remains this city's signature dish. Kiosks along the coast sell alcapurrias and other fried snacks each evening. Visitors can sample lechon at a stall that has served the roast pork for decades. Old San Juan's markets sell coffee and produce grown across the island's interior.
City in France
Marseille
Grit, grandeur and Mediterranean soul
Bouillabaisse, a saffron scented fish stew, is widely said to have originated in this port city. The Vieux Port fish market sells the morning's catch steps from waterfront restaurants. Visitors can pair a bowl of the stew with rouille, a garlicky sauce on toast. Pastis, an anise flavoured spirit, remains the city's classic aperitif.
City in Laos
Luang Prabang
Laid-back charm by the Mekong River
Night markets here sell grilled skewers, sticky rice and Lao sausage along a lantern lit street. Saffron robed monks walk the streets at dawn, collecting alms in an old ritual. Visitors can sample orlam, a bitter herb stew, at a family run restaurant. Morning markets sell foraged greens and river weed unique to this region.
City in Ecuador
Quito
Andean Charm Meets Colonial Splendor
Locro de papa, a hearty potato soup, remains a beloved dish across this high altitude capital. Street vendors sell hornado, roasted pork, at markets throughout the historic centre. Visitors can sample empanadas de viento, cheese filled pastries, at a market stall. Mercado Central sells produce, juice and prepared food across its crowded stalls.
City in India
Amritsar
Golden spirituality in Punjab's heart
The Golden Temple's community kitchen feeds tens of thousands of visitors free meals daily. Street stalls nearby sell amritsari kulcha, a stuffed flatbread, alongside spiced chickpeas. Visitors can sample lassi, a thick yogurt drink, at shops that have served it for generations. Papad and pickle vendors line the lanes near the temple's crowded entrance.
City in Malta
Valletta
A historic gem by the sea
Pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas, remain Malta's beloved street snack. Street vendors sell these fresh from ovens at stands across the capital's narrow lanes. Visitors can sample ftira, a stuffed flatbread, at a bakery near the harbour. Markets sell olives, capers and produce grown across the surrounding islands.
Island in Indonesia
Lombok
Untamed Beaches and Majestic Mountains
Ayam taliwang, spiced grilled chicken, remains this island's most celebrated speciality. Night markets sell plecing kangkung, a spicy water spinach salad, alongside grilled fish. Visitors can sample sate rembiga, a fiery skewered beef dish, at a roadside stall. Markets near Mataram sell tropical fruit and produce grown across the island.
City in China
Beijing
Ancient history meets modern dynamism
Wangfujing's snack street sells skewered scorpions and starfish alongside more familiar street food. Hutong alleyways hide small stalls selling jianbing, a savoury folded crepe, each morning. Visitors can sample zhajiangmian, noodles topped with fermented bean sauce, at a local shop. Night markets nearby sell dumplings and grilled skewers well into the evening.
City in Iran
Tehran
A vibrant city with rich history
Kabab koobideh, minced meat skewers, remain a beloved dish sold at grill stands citywide. Tajrish Bazaar sells spices, dried fruit and nuts beneath a covered, bustling roof. Visitors can sample faloodeh, a frozen dessert with thin noodles, at a stall. Tea houses nearby serve saffron tea alongside traditional Persian pastries.
Region in Mexico
Yucatán
Gateway to the Mayan world
Cochinita pibil, pork slow roasted in banana leaves, remains this region's signature dish. Market stalls sell panuchos, fried tortillas stuffed with beans and topped with meat. Visitors can sample marquesitas, a crispy rolled crepe filled with cheese, at a stand. Markets across the peninsula sell habanero salsas ground fresh each morning.
City in Vietnam
Da Nang
Beaches, Mountains and City Vibes
Banh xeo, a crispy stuffed pancake, remains a signature dish sold at local eateries. Seafood markets near the beach sell the morning's catch to nearby restaurants. Visitors can sample mi quang, a turmeric noodle dish, at a family run shop. Night markets along the river sell grilled skewers and drinks after dark.
City in Italy
Naples
Where history and passion converge
Pizza fritta, a fried dough stuffed with cheese and tomato, remains a Naples street classic. Sfogliatella, a shell shaped pastry, gets sold warm from bakeries across the city. Visitors can sample fresh mozzarella pulled to order at a small dairy shop. Street stalls near the port sell fried seafood cones to passing visitors.
Region in Italy
Campania
Ancient ruins meet coastal paradise
Pizza fritta, a fried dough stuffed with cheese and tomato, remains a Naples street classic. Sfogliatella, a shell shaped pastry, gets sold warm from bakeries across the region. Visitors can sample fresh mozzarella pulled to order at a small dairy shop. Coastal towns nearby sell fried seafood cones from stands facing the water.
Region in Indonesia
Bali
Tropical beaches, vibrant culture and adventure
Night markets across the island sell satay and nasi campur from rows of small stalls. Babi guling, roasted pig stuffed with spices, remains a centrepiece dish at warungs. Visitors can sample fresh coconut and fruit at a market before lunch nearby. Rice paddies surround some of the island's most respected roadside food stalls.
Island in Italy
Sicily
Sun, Sea and Ancient Secrets
Arancini, fried rice balls stuffed with ragu or cheese, remain a beloved street snack here. Cannoli filled fresh to order appear at pastry shops across nearly every town. Visitors can pair fresh swordfish with local wine at a harbour front trattoria. Street markets in Palermo sell panelle and other fried snacks well into the evening.
City in Mexico
San Miguel de Allende
Colonial Charm with Artistic Soul
Street vendors sell gorditas, stuffed corn cakes, from carts near the main square. Mercado de Artesanias holds food stalls alongside vendors selling local crafts. Visitors can sample churros dipped in chocolate at a stand near the parish church. Markets sell fresh produce and prepared antojitos throughout the historic centre.
City in Vietnam
Hanoi
Where tradition meets modern vibrancy
Bun cha, grilled pork with rice noodles and herbs, remains a beloved lunchtime dish here. Street vendors set up plastic stools on pavements throughout the Old Quarter each day. Visitors can sample egg coffee, made with whipped egg yolk and condensed milk. Pho, the city's signature noodle soup, is said to have originated here.
State/Prefecture in China
Hong Kong
Where East Meets West
Dim sum carts still circle dining rooms in some of the city's oldest teahouses. Wet markets supply chefs with live seafood kept in tanks until the order comes in. Visitors can eat roast goose at a street stall before egg waffles nearby. Temple Street's night market sells noodle soups and grilled skewers well after dark.
City in Thailand
Chiang Rai
Temples, Misty Mountains, Lanna Soul
Night bazaar stalls here sell northern Thai dishes like nam prik and sticky rice. Hill tribe vendors sell handwoven textiles alongside food stalls each evening. Visitors can sample khao soi at a market stand before browsing craft stalls nearby. Coffee grown in the surrounding highlands supplies cafes across the old town.
City in China
Lijiang
Ancient Charm and Mountain Majesty
Baba, a flaky layered flatbread, remains a Naxi speciality sold across this old town. Cobbled lanes hold vendors selling yak meat skewers and grilled mushrooms each evening. Visitors can sample sour plum juice, a regional drink, at a stall near the canals. Markets sell wild mushrooms foraged from the surrounding Yunnan highlands.
Town in Uzbekistan
Khiva
A Step Back in Time
This Silk Road city's covered bazaars have traded spices and textiles for centuries. Shivit oshi, green noodles coloured with dill, is a speciality unique to this region. Visitors can sample fresh non bread pulled straight from a clay tandoor oven. Tea houses near the old city walls serve green tea with dried fruit and nuts.
District in Manila
Binondo
World’s Oldest Vibrant Chinatown
This Manila district holds one of the world's oldest continuously operating Chinatowns. Dim sum houses and noodle shops line streets first settled by Chinese traders centuries ago. Visitors can sample siopao, steamed buns filled with pork, at stalls throughout the district. Gold and jewellery shops sit alongside food vendors selling fresh lumpia and noodles.
City in Indonesia
Yogyakarta
Java’s soul: temples, art, street eats
Gudeg, jackfruit stewed for hours in palm sugar and coconut milk, defines this city's cooking. Street vendors sell bakpia, a mung bean filled pastry, from shops near the palace. Visitors can sample angkringan style snacks at a cart lit by a small oil lamp. Beringharjo Market sells produce, batik and prepared food across crowded floors.
City in Lebanon
Beirut
The Paris of the Middle East
Manakeesh, flatbread topped with za'atar or cheese, is sold fresh from bakery ovens. Mar Mikhael's streets hold both traditional food carts and newer chef kitchens. Visitors can sample knafeh at a sweet shop serving the dish for decades. Street vendors sell fresh juice and roasted corn along the coastal promenade.
City in Malaysia
Johor Bahru
A vibrant gateway to Malaysian charm
Mee rebus, noodles in a thick spiced gravy, remains a beloved dish across this city. Night markets sell satay and grilled seafood along streets near the waterfront. Visitors can sample laksa Johor, a spaghetti based version unique to this region. Hawker centres here blend Malay, Chinese and Indian cooking under one roof.
City in Russia
Kazan
Where Europe Meets Asia
Echpochmak, a triangular pastry filled with meat and potato, remains this city's signature snack. Tatar cuisine here blends Turkic, Russian and Central Asian culinary traditions. Visitors can sample chak chak, a honey coated fried dough dessert, at a bakery. Markets near the kremlin sell dried fruit, nuts and pickled vegetables by weight.
City in United States
New York City
Five boroughs of skyline, food and museums
Bagels boiled before baking remain a defining breakfast tradition across the city's delis. Immigrant neighbourhoods have shaped entire culinary scenes, from Chinatown to Little Italy. Visitors can pair a slice of pizza with a food cart hot dog the same afternoon. Greenmarkets supply chefs with produce grown across the surrounding Hudson Valley.
City in South Korea
Busan
Beaches, Markets and Culture
Jagalchi Fish Market sells live seafood pulled from boats docked at the harbour. Street stalls near the market grill fish and squid to order for waiting customers. Visitors can sample ssiat hotteok, a seed filled pancake unique to this city. Gukje Market's narrow lanes hold vendors selling food and secondhand goods.
City in Turkey
Antalya
Turquoise Coast and Ancient Wonders
Grilled fish sandwiches sold from harbour stalls remain a staple lunch here. Ottoman era markets sell spices, nuts and dried fruit within the old walled town. Visitors can sample simit, a sesame crusted bread ring, from carts near the harbour. Turkish delight shops nearby sell dozens of flavours by weight to visitors.
City in Philippines
Manila
Vibrant City with Rich History
Street vendors sell balut, a fertilised duck egg, alongside more familiar grilled skewers. Sisig, sizzling chopped pork served on a hot plate, remains a beloved bar food. Visitors can sample halo halo, a shaved ice dessert, at a stall in the summer heat. Quiapo Market sells produce, herbs and prepared food across its crowded lanes.
Country
El Salvador
Land of volcanoes and pupusas
Pupusas, thick corn cakes stuffed with cheese or beans, remain the country's signature street food. Vendors griddle them fresh at roadside stands found in nearly every town. Visitors can pair a pupusa with curtido, a tangy cabbage slaw, at any stand. Markets sell tropical fruit and fresh juice alongside the country's beloved corn dishes.
Town in Turkey
Göreme
Fairy Chimneys and Cave Dwellings
Cave restaurants carved into volcanic rock serve pottery kebab cracked open tableside. Local wine, grown on vines rooted in volcanic soil, pairs with regional dishes. Visitors can sample dried fruit and nuts at stalls beneath the fairy chimney formations. Bakeries sell fresh bread each morning to travellers before dawn balloon rides.
City in United Kingdom
London
A Tapestry of History and Modernity
Curry houses along Brick Lane trace back to waves of South Asian immigration. Borough Market supplies chefs with produce, cheese and meat from across the country. Visitors can pair a Sunday roast with a pint before browsing a food market. Street food stalls at Camden Market draw crowds with cuisines from dozens of countries.
City in Italy
Bologna
Medieval charm and culinary excellence
This city's covered market streets have supplied kitchens with fresh pasta and cured meats for centuries. Tortellini in broth remains a defining dish found at trattorias across the centre. Visitors can sample mortadella sliced fresh at a deli counter near the market. Porticoed streets shelter food stalls from rain during the city's frequent markets.
City in China
Chongqing
China’s Mountain City on the Yangtze
Hot pot here simmers in a broth loaded with chilli and numbing Sichuan peppercorns. Street stalls sell xiaomian, spicy noodles, at breakfast across nearly every neighbourhood. Visitors can sample skewers dipped in chilli oil at a riverside night market. Steep hillside streets hold food stalls stacked across multiple levels in places.
City in Indonesia
Jakarta
A chaotic, vibrant urban jungle
Kaki lima carts wheel through neighbourhoods selling satay, noodles and fried snacks. Nasi goreng, fried rice topped with a crispy egg, remains a beloved comfort dish. Visitors can sample soto, a spiced broth soup, at a warung near the old town. Glodok, the city's Chinatown, sells dim sum and dried goods along crowded lanes.
City in Malaysia
Malacca
Where centuries of culture converge
Chicken rice balls, a local twist on a Hainanese classic, remain this city's signature dish. Jonker Street's night market sells satay celup and grilled seafood each weekend evening. Visitors can sample nyonya laksa, a rich coconut based noodle soup, at a stall. Peranakan cuisine here blends Chinese and Malay traditions found only in this region.
City in Malaysia
George Town – Penang
Street Art, Heritage and Food Heaven
Hawker stalls here blend Malay, Chinese and Indian cooking into dishes found only here. Char kway teow, stir fried noodles, remains a signature dish sold at open air stalls. Visitors can sample assam laksa, a tangy fish based soup, at a market stall. Street art murals sit within walking distance of the city's hawker centres.
Island in Thailand
Phuket
Beaches, Culture and Nightlife
Old Town's weekend walking street fills with food stalls selling Peranakan specialities. Fresh seafood pulled from the Andaman Sea supplies markets along the coast each morning. Visitors can sample moo hong, a sweet braised pork dish unique to this region. Roti stalls sell the fried flatbread topped with banana and condensed milk nearby.
City in Argentina
Buenos Aires
Where Tango and Culture Thrive
Choripan, a grilled sausage sandwich, remains a favourite street food sold from carts citywide. Parrillas fill neighbourhoods with the smell of beef grilling over open wood fires. Visitors can sample empanadas at a bakery before browsing a Sunday antiques market. Cafes serving medialunas and coffee stay busy from morning well into the evening.
City in China
Hangzhou
A Timeless Blend of Serenity
Longjing tea grown in the hills around West Lake pairs with light regional dishes. Beggar's chicken, wrapped in lotus leaves and clay before roasting, is a local speciality. Visitors can sample dongpo pork, a braised belly dish named for a Song poet. Night markets near the lake sell skewers and noodle soups after dark.
Country
Singapore
Tropical city-state of hawker food and gardens
Hawker centres here hold Michelin stars alongside some of the country's most refined kitchens. Chilli crab, stir fried in a sweet and spicy sauce, remains a signature local dish. Visitors can sample laksa, satay and roti at a single hawker centre. Peranakan cooking blends Chinese and Malay traditions into dishes found only here.
City in Indonesia
Surabaya
Vibrant port city blending tradition and modernity
Rawon, a dark beef soup coloured with black nuts, remains this city's signature dish. Street vendors sell rujak cingur, a spicy fruit and beef snout salad, at market stalls. Visitors can sample lontong balap, rice cakes in broth, at a roadside stand. Pasar Atom sells produce, textiles and prepared food across several crowded floors.
City in United States
Austin
Live music, lakes and local flavor
Food trucks parked in gravel lots serve barbecue and tacos across the city. Breakfast tacos here anchor a daily ritual found at stands throughout town. Visitors can queue for smoked brisket at a trailer that closes once sold out. Live music venues often sit within walking distance of the city's food trucks.
Town in Indonesia
Ubud
Bali's Cultural and Spiritual Heart
Warungs here serve some of the island's most respected cooking from small family kitchens. Babi guling, roasted pig stuffed with turmeric, remains a centrepiece dish nearby. Visitors can dine at a restaurant overlooking rice paddies in the surrounding hills. Markets sell tropical fruit and spices grown across the surrounding countryside.
City in South Korea
Incheon
Harbor city with islands and history
This port city's Chinatown sells jajangmyeon, black bean noodles that originated in this district. Sinpo Market holds vendors selling grilled meat, dumplings and street snacks under one roof. Visitors can sample dakgangjeong, sweet and spicy fried chicken, at a market stall. Fresh seafood pulled from nearby waters supplies restaurants along the harbour.
City in Spain
Valencia
Sunlit Shores and Rich Culture
Paella originated in the rice fields surrounding this Spanish city, cooked over open flame. Horchata, a chilled drink made from tiger nuts, remains a local summer speciality. Visitors can sample fartons, sweet pastries, dipped into a cup of horchata nearby. Mercado Central sells produce and seafood beneath a restored art nouveau glass roof.
City in Uruguay
Montevideo
Chill vibes on the Río de la Plata
Chivito sandwiches, piled high with steak and toppings, remain this city's signature street food. Mercado del Puerto gathers grill restaurants under one roof near the old harbour. Visitors can sample choripan at a stand before browsing an antiques market nearby. Cafes serving medialunas and coffee stay busy through the afternoon here.
City in India
Lucknow
City of Nawabs and kebabs
Tunday kababi, minced meat kebabs made with a secret spice blend, remains this city's signature dish. Old city lanes near Chowk sell kulfi and other Mughal era desserts each evening. Visitors can sample nihari, a slow cooked stew, at a stall that opens before dawn. Awadhi cuisine here reflects centuries of royal court culinary tradition.
City in China
Wuhan
Where history meets the Yangtze
Hot dry noodles, tossed with sesame paste, remain this city's most beloved breakfast dish. Street stalls sell doupi, a savoury rice and bean wrapped snack, each morning. Visitors can sample duck neck, a spicy local speciality, at a market stall. Jianghan Road holds food vendors selling regional Hubei dishes into the evening.
City in India
Varanasi
India’s Timeless Spiritual Heartbeat
Kachori sabzi, a fried pastry served with spiced vegetables, remains a beloved breakfast here. Lanes near the ghats sell lassi in clay cups at shops open since colonial times. Visitors can sample chaat and street sweets at stalls throughout the old city. Markets sell paan, betel leaf wrapped around spices, at nearly every corner.
City in Myanmar
Yangon
Golden pagodas and colonial echoes
Mohinga, a fish based noodle soup, remains Myanmar's most beloved breakfast dish here. Street stalls sell tea leaf salad, tossed with fried beans and dried shrimp. Visitors can sample samosa thoke, a salad built around crushed fried samosas, nearby. Tea houses across the city pair snacks with strong, sweet condensed milk tea.
City in Japan
Kobe
Harbour city with hills, beef and hot springs
Kobe beef, prized for its marbling, comes from cattle raised under strict regional standards. Teppanyaki restaurants here grill the beef tableside on a hot iron plate. Visitors can pair a steak dinner with sake produced in the nearby Nada district. Chinatown near the harbour adds dumplings and noodle dishes to the city's food scene.
City in Cuba
Havana
Vibrant Streets, Timeless Rhythms
Street stalls sell fried plantain chips and peanuts from carts near the old colonial squares. Paladares, small family run restaurants, serve ropa vieja and other Cuban classics. Visitors can sample fresh guarapo, sugarcane juice pressed by hand at market stalls. State run markets sell produce alongside vendors hawking snacks near the Malecon.
City in United States
Honolulu
Aloha Vibes and Ocean Adventures
Poke bowls here get built from raw fish tossed with soy, sesame and seaweed. Food trucks parked along the harbour serve plate lunches piled with rice and meat. Visitors can sample malasadas, fried Portuguese doughnuts, at a bakery downtown. Chinatown's markets sell tropical produce and dried goods brought in from across the islands.
City in Germany
Berlin
Wall history, Museum Island and all-night clubs
Currywurst stands sell sliced sausage doused in spiced ketchup across nearly every neighbourhood. Turkish markets sell doner kebab and fresh produce along streets shaped by decades of immigration. Visitors can sample a food hall's dozen stalls before browsing a nearby flea market. Craft beer gardens pair casual food with long tables shared among strangers.
City in Turkey
Bodrum
Sun, Sea and Ancient Ruins
Seafood restaurants along the harbour grill the day's catch within sight of docked fishing boats. Ottoman era markets sell spices, olives and dried fruit within the old town's narrow lanes. Visitors can sample gozleme, a stuffed flatbread, from stalls near the castle walls. Windmills on the surrounding hills once ground grain now milled elsewhere.
City in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo
Where East meets West in the Balkans
Cevapi, grilled minced meat sausages, remain this city's most beloved street food. Bascarsija's old bazaar sells burek and other pastries from bakeries dating back centuries. Visitors can sample bosanski lonac, a slow cooked meat stew, at a family run spot. Coffee houses nearby serve traditional Bosnian coffee in small copper pots.
City in Azerbaijan
Baku
Where modernity meets ancient charm
Tea houses across this city serve black tea in pear shaped glasses with pastries. Qutab, a thin stuffed flatbread, remains a common street snack sold from carts. Visitors can sample plov, a saffron rice dish, at restaurants across the old town. Markets sell dried fruit, nuts and spices brought in from across the region.
City in China
Guilin
Karst Mountains and Serene Rivers
Rice noodles served in a savoury broth remain this city's most beloved breakfast dish. Night markets along the river sell skewered meat and stuffed rice cakes each evening. Visitors can sample beer fish, a local speciality, at a restaurant facing the karst peaks. Osmanthus flower cakes appear at bakeries during the autumn blooming season.
City in Mexico
Tijuana
Border city pulse: vibrant culture and cuisine
Fish tacos, battered and fried, are widely said to have originated in this border city. Street stalls grill carne asada over open coals along busy evening corners. Visitors can sample Caesar salad, invented here, at the restaurant that first served it. Mercado Hidalgo sells produce, spices and dried chiles across crowded stalls.
City in Taiwan
Hualien
Gateway to Taroko’s Marble Wonders
Night markets here sell fried squid, bubble tea and grilled skewers along the coast. Mochi shops nearby have supplied the region with fresh rice cakes for generations. Visitors can sample wild boar sausage at a stall run by indigenous vendors. Fresh seafood pulled from the Pacific supplies restaurants near the harbour each morning.
City in Georgia
Tbilisi
A blend of old-world charm and energy
Khachapuri, cheese filled bread topped with a raw egg, remains this city's signature dish. Khinkali, soup filled dumplings, get eaten by hand without cutlery at local spots. Visitors can sample churchkhela, a candle shaped candy made from grape juice and nuts. Dry Bridge Market sells antiques and produce along the riverbank each weekend.
City in Italy
Catania
Baroque Splendor at Etna’s Foot
This Sicilian city's fish market fills each morning with vendors shouting over fresh catch. Arancini and other fried snacks get sold from stalls near the market's edges. Visitors can sample horse meat sandwiches, a local speciality, at a street stall downtown. Granita paired with brioche remains the traditional breakfast found at nearby cafes.
City in Mexico
Puebla
Mexico's Underrated Cultural Gem
Mole poblano, a complex sauce built from chiles and chocolate, originated in this city. Cemitas, sandwiches layered with meat and cheese, remain a beloved local speciality. Visitors can sample chalupas at a market stall near the historic centre. Mercado El Alto sells produce, spices and prepared food across crowded stalls.
City in South Korea
Gyeongju
Ancient Treasures in a Modern World
Hwangnam bread, a red bean filled pastry, remains a speciality tied to this ancient capital. Markets near the old tombs sell traditional rice cakes alongside fresh produce. Visitors can sample ssambap, rice wrapped in leafy greens, at a restaurant downtown. Tea houses nearby serve barley tea alongside pastries shaped like historic artefacts.
City in Mexico
Guanajuato
Colorful alleys and silver history
Enchiladas mineras, a regional dish named for the city's mining history, appears at market stalls. Underground tunnels connect parts of the city, some now home to small food vendors. Visitors can sample tacos and tostadas at Mercado Hidalgo's crowded central hall. Pastry shops sell conchas and other sweet breads fresh each morning.
City in Greece
Thessaloniki
History, Seaside Charm and Lively Vibes
Bougatsa, a custard filled pastry, remains a beloved breakfast found at bakeries citywide. Modiano Market sells fish, meat and produce beneath a restored covered hall. Visitors can sample koulouri, a sesame bread ring, from carts near the waterfront. Ottoman era influence shows in the city's spice heavy grilled meat dishes.
City in Canada
Vancouver
Where mountains, ocean and city life meet
Fresh spot prawns and salmon from nearby waters supply sushi counters across the city. Chinatown here holds one of North America's oldest and largest Chinese communities. Visitors can pair dim sum with a walk through a nearby night market. Food trucks parked downtown serve cuisines drawn from the city's many immigrant communities.
City in Italy
Palermo
Sicily’s melting pot of wonders
Panelle, fried chickpea fritters, remain a beloved street snack sold from carts citywide. Ballaro Market fills narrow lanes with vendors selling fish, produce and prepared food. Visitors can sample arancini and pane con la milza, a spleen sandwich, at a stall. Street vendors nearby sell fresh cannoli filled to order throughout the day.
Region in Malaysia
Penang
Heritage charm meets foodie heaven
Hawker stalls here blend Malay, Chinese and Indian cooking into dishes found only here. Char kway teow, stir fried noodles, remains a signature dish sold at open air stalls. Visitors can sample assam laksa, a tangy fish based soup, at a market stall. Street art murals sit within walking distance of the city's hawker centres.
State/Prefecture in China
Macau
Where East meets West in style
Portuguese and Cantonese traditions blend here into dishes found nowhere else in the world. Street stalls sell egg tarts and pork chop buns near the old town's cobbled squares. Visitors can sample African chicken, a local speciality, at a bakery cafe downtown. Markets sell dried seafood and Chinese sausage along narrow, crowded lanes.
City in Mexico
Oaxaca
Colonial Charm and Rich Traditions
Tlayudas, large crisp tortillas topped with beans and cheese, remain this city's signature street food. Mole, a complex sauce built from dozens of ingredients, appears in countless regional variations. Visitors can sample chapulines, toasted grasshoppers, at a market stall downtown. Mezcalerias pour agave spirits from small producers across the surrounding valleys.
City in Taiwan
Tainan
Temples, Night Markets and Ancient Soul
This city is widely regarded as the birthplace of much of Taiwan's street food culture. Danzai noodles, topped with minced pork and shrimp, remain a local signature dish. Visitors can sample coffin bread, a hollowed loaf filled with creamy stew, downtown. Night markets sell milkfish and other regional specialities found nowhere else.
City in India
Delhi
A Kaleidoscope of History and Culture
Chandni Chowk's lanes pack in vendors selling parathas, chaat and jalebi since Mughal times. Old Delhi's spice market sells goods by the sackful in narrow, crowded alleys. Visitors can sample butter chicken at a restaurant credited with inventing the dish. Street carts sell golgappa, crisp shells filled with spiced water, at every corner.
City in Japan
Takayama
Old town, morning markets and Hida beef
Morning markets along the river sell pickles, produce and grilled rice cakes each day. Hida beef, prized for its marbling, gets skewered and grilled at stalls citywide. Visitors can sample sarubobo shaped sweets sold at shops near the old merchant district. Sake breweries in town offer tastings alongside snacks made from local rice.
City in Ghana
Accra
Vibrant Culture and Coastal Charm
Waakye, rice and beans cooked with dried leaves, remains a beloved street breakfast here. Roadside grills sell suya, spiced skewered meat, well into the evening across the city. Visitors can sample kelewele, fried spiced plantain, from vendors near busy intersections. Markets sell fresh fish and produce brought in from the surrounding coast each morning.
City in Jordan
Amman
Ancient History Meets Modern Charm
Mansaf, lamb cooked in fermented yogurt sauce, remains Jordan's most celebrated dish. Street stalls downtown sell falafel and hummus from carts operating for decades. Visitors can sample knafeh, a cheese filled pastry soaked in syrup, downtown. Spice markets nearby sell za'atar and other blends by weight from open sacks.
Town in China
Dali
Ancient Charm by Erhai Lake
This Yunnan city sells rushan, a stretched dairy cheese, grilled and rolled at street stalls. Bai ethnic cooking here leans on sour and spicy flavours found nowhere else. Visitors can sample baba, a flaky flatbread, from vendors near the old city gates. Markets sell mushrooms foraged from the surrounding mountains each morning.
Country
Sudan
Ancient pyramids beyond the crowds
Ful medames, stewed fava beans, remains a beloved breakfast dish eaten across the country. Street vendors sell tamiya, a fried bean patty, from carts in busy market areas. Visitors can sample asida, a wheat porridge, at a stall during festive occasions. Markets sell dates, spices and produce brought in from along the Nile.
City in Japan
Naha
Okinawa's capital with Shuri Castle and markets
Okinawa soba, a wheat noodle soup topped with pork belly, remains this city's regional speciality. Markets sell purple sweet potato and bitter melon grown across the surrounding islands. Visitors can sample sata andagi, a fried doughnut, at a stall near the old castle. Kokusai Street holds food vendors selling snacks well into the evening.
City in Bolivia
La Paz
Where Altitude Meets Adventure and Culture
Salteñas, baked pastries filled with spiced meat and broth, remain a beloved morning snack. Street stalls at this high altitude city sell anticuchos, skewered beef heart, each evening. Visitors can sample api, a warm purple corn drink, alongside a fried pastry. Mercado Rodriguez sells produce, coca leaves and prepared food across crowded stalls.
City in Taiwan
Kaohsiung
Harbor Lights, Art and Night Markets
Liuhe Night Market sells oyster omelets and stinky tofu along a long pedestrian strip. Seafood stalls near the harbour grill the day's catch to order for waiting customers. Visitors can sample papaya milk, a local speciality drink, at a corner stand. Ruifeng Night Market nearby draws younger crowds with trendy fusion street food.
City in Poland
Warsaw
Where history meets modern vibrance
Pierogi, dumplings filled with potato, cheese or meat, remain Poland's most beloved comfort food. Milk bars here serve cheap, home style meals in a tradition dating to communist times. Visitors can sample zapiekanka, an open faced baguette, at a stall downtown. Hala Koszyki, a restored market hall, gathers food stalls under one roof.
City in Japan
Otaru
Canal warehouses, glass shops and sushi
This port city's canal district holds seafood stalls selling fresh uni and crab. Music box shops sit alongside sushi counters in restored warehouse buildings downtown. Visitors can sample fresh seafood bowls at a market before browsing glassware shops. Sake breweries here produce spirits using snowmelt from the surrounding mountains.
Village in Thailand
Ban Rak Thai
Cozy riverside retreat amid lush jungle
Yunnanese settlers built this misty lakeside village after fleeing China decades ago. Tea plantations on the surrounding hills supply teahouses lining the water's edge. Visitors can sample stewed pork leg served with steamed mantou buns at village restaurants. Clay houses with tiled roofs still recall the architecture of the settlers' homeland.
City in Colombia
Bogotá
Vibrant Culture in the Andean Highlands
Street vendors sell arepas and empanadas from carts across the city's corners. Paloquemao Market sells produce, flowers and exotic fruit from across Colombia. Visitors can sample ajiaco, a potato and chicken soup, at a nearby restaurant. Chicha, a fermented corn drink with pre Columbian roots, still appears at some stalls.
City in Tanzania
Zanzibar City
Stone Town’s Spice-Scented Labyrinth
Forodhani Gardens fills each evening with grills selling skewered octopus and grilled fish. Urojo, a tangy soup topped with fried dough and mango, remains a beloved local speciality. Visitors can sample sugarcane juice pressed fresh at stalls lining the waterfront park. Darajani Market sells spices, produce and dried fish beneath a covered colonial hall.
City in China
Xi'an
Where history whispers through time
Roujiamo, meat stuffed flatbread often compared to a Chinese hamburger, remains a local classic. The Muslim Quarter fills each evening with stalls selling skewers and biang biang noodles. Visitors can sample yangrou paomo, bread soaked in mutton soup, at a shop nearby. Markets sell dried fruit, spices and nuts brought in along old trade routes.
City in Uzbekistan
Bukhara
Ancient Silk Road Splendor
This Silk Road city's covered bazaars have traded spices and textiles for centuries. Plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and carrots, remains the region's signature meal. Visitors can sample fresh non bread pulled straight from a clay tandoor oven. Tea houses near the old trading domes serve green tea with dried fruit and nuts.
City in India
Agra
Home of the Majestic Taj Mahal
Petha, a translucent candy made from ash gourd, is a speciality found here. Street vendors near the Taj Mahal sell chaat, a tangy mix of fried dough and spices. Visitors can sample mughlai style kebabs at stalls serving the dish for generations. Bedai, a spiced fried bread, appears at breakfast stalls throughout the old city.
City in China
Qingdao
Beaches, Beer and Old-World Charm
Fresh seafood pulled from nearby waters supplies grill stalls along this coastal city. Local beer, brewed since German colonial rule, pairs with skewers sold at street stands. Visitors can sample jiaozi, boiled dumplings, at a shop near the old town. Markets sell dried seafood and produce along streets near the harbour.
City in Kenya
Nairobi
Where urban life meets wild adventures
Nyama choma, grilled meat served with ugali, anchors social gatherings across this capital. Street vendors sell roasted maize and mutura, a spiced sausage, at busy corners. Visitors can sample a full carnivore style feast at a restaurant known for open fire grilling. Markets sell fresh produce brought in from the surrounding highlands each morning.
City in India
Chennai
Culture, beaches and incredible South Indian food
Idli and dosa carts sell steamed and griddled rice cakes at breakfast across the city. Filter coffee, brewed strong and poured between cups, remains a daily morning ritual. Visitors can sample sundal, spiced chickpeas sold near the beach, at sunset. Marina Beach's food stalls sell fried snacks to crowds gathered each evening.
City in Nepal
Kathmandu
Temples, chaos and Himalayan magic
Momos, steamed or fried dumplings, remain this city's most beloved street food. Newari cuisine here draws on generations old recipes tied to the Kathmandu Valley. Visitors can sample sel roti, a ring shaped fried rice bread, at a market stall. Ason Market sells spices, produce and prepared food along its narrow, crowded lanes.
City in Australia
Sydney
Where urban life meets stunning beaches
Rock oysters pulled from nearby estuaries supply raw bars across the harbour front. Modern Australian cooking here blends European technique with Asian and Pacific ingredients. Visitors can pair fresh seafood with a harbour view at a market near the Opera House. Chinatown and other immigrant neighbourhoods add depth to the city's food scene.
City in China
Shenzhen
A Futuristic City with a Soul
This fast growing city's food courts blend Cantonese classics with dishes from across China. Seafood markets nearby sell live fish and shellfish kept in tanks until ordered. Visitors can sample congee and rice noodle rolls at a morning tea house. Night markets sell skewers and hot pot ingredients well into the evening.
City in China
Chengdu
Pandas, Hotpot and Laid-back Vibes
Sichuan peppercorns give many street dishes here their distinctive tingling, numbing heat. Skewer stalls sell spicy hot pot ingredients cooked to order at outdoor tables. Visitors can sample dan dan noodles at a stall that has served the dish for decades. Teahouses across the city pair snacks with pours of local green tea.
City in Japan
Fukuoka
Kyushu's biggest city, known for yatai and ramen
Yatai food stalls line the riverbanks each evening, serving ramen from open air carts. Hakata style noodles here use a rich pork bone broth simmered for hours. Visitors can hop between stalls, sampling a different dish and drink at each stop. Mentaiko, spiced cod roe, appears in dishes sold across the city's markets.
City in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
Vibrant City with Deep History
Num pang, a baguette sandwich shaped by French colonial influence, remains a popular breakfast. Street vendors sell fried spiders and insects alongside more familiar grilled skewers. Visitors can sample amok, a steamed fish curry, at a market stall downtown. Central Market sells produce, gold and prepared food beneath a distinctive art deco dome.
Region in Turkey
Muğla
Turquoise Coast's Hidden Gem
Coastal towns across this province grill the day's catch within sight of docked fishing boats. Weekly markets sell dried fruit, olives and spices grown across the surrounding hills. Visitors can sample gozleme, a stuffed flatbread, cooked fresh on a griddle nearby. Turkish breakfast spreads here include dozens of small dishes served at once.
City in Peru
Cusco
Gateway to the Incan Empire's Heart
Markets near the main square sell chicha morada, a drink made from purple corn. Anticuchos, skewered beef heart, remain a popular street food sold from grills. Visitors can sample cuy, roasted guinea pig, at a restaurant near the plaza. San Pedro Market sells produce, juice and prepared food stalls under one roof.
City in Nigeria
Lagos
Buzzing Metropolis with Coastal Charm
Suya, spiced skewered meat, gets grilled over open coals at roadside stands citywide. Jollof rice, a tomato based dish, anchors gatherings across nearly every neighbourhood here. Visitors can sample akara, fried bean cakes, from vendors near busy morning markets. Balogun Market sells fabric, produce and street snacks across its crowded lanes.
Village in Malta
Marsaxlokk
Charming Fishing Village Experience
Luzzu fishing boats bring the morning's catch straight to this harbour's Sunday market. Vendors lay out swordfish, octopus and lampuki on ice along the promenade. Visitors can sample fresh grilled fish at a waterfront restaurant after browsing the stalls. Weekday markets sell honey, nougat and produce at a quieter, more local pace.
City in Mexico
Guadalajara
Mariachi, murals and modern flair
Tortas ahogadas, sandwiches drowned in spicy tomato sauce, remain this city's signature street food. Mercado San Juan de Dios holds hundreds of stalls selling food across several floors. Visitors can sample birria, a spiced meat stew, at a stand that opens before dawn. Tequila produced in the nearby highlands pairs with dishes across the city.
City in China
Guangzhou
A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Dim sum here traces its roots to Cantonese teahouses serving small dishes alongside tea. Restaurants across the city still wheel carts of dumplings between crowded tables. Visitors can sample congee and rice noodle rolls at a morning tea house. Qingping Market sells dried seafood, herbs and spices from stalls stacked floor to ceiling.
Region in Turkey
Cappadocia
A surreal land of fairy chimneys
Testi kebab, meat slow cooked in a sealed clay pot, gets cracked open tableside at local restaurants. Cave restaurants carved into soft volcanic rock serve regional Anatolian dishes each evening. Visitors can sample pottery kebab paired with local wine grown on nearby vineyards. Dried fruit and nut stalls sell goods harvested from the surrounding valleys.
City in Qatar
Doha
Where modern luxury meets tradition
Souq Waqif fills each evening with stalls selling grilled meat, spices and sweets. Machbous, spiced rice topped with meat, remains a staple across the city's restaurants. Visitors can sample fresh dates and Arabic coffee at a stall near the souq entrance. Falcon markets nearby sell birds prized by traditional hunters.
District in Seoul
Myeong-dong
Seoul’s Bustling Shopping Hotspot
Street carts here sell tteokbokki and hotteok, a sweet filled pancake, each evening. Cosmetic shops line the same streets, drawing shoppers between rounds of food stalls. Visitors can sample skewered meats and cheese corn dogs at stalls open by dusk. This district transforms from a shopping strip by day into a food market by night.
City in India
Bangalore
India’s Green and Tech Capital
Dosa carts sell crisp rice crepes filled with spiced potato at breakfast. VV Puram's food street fills each evening with stalls selling South Indian snacks. Visitors can sample masala puri and other chaat dishes at a single crowded lane. Filter coffee, brewed strong and served with milk, remains a daily ritual citywide.
City in Indonesia
Denpasar
Bali’s Vibrant Cultural Heart
Night markets here sell nasi jinggo, small rice portions wrapped in banana leaf. Satay stalls grill skewered meat over charcoal along streets near the central market. Visitors can sample babi guling at a warung known for the dish citywide. Badung Market sells produce, spices and snacks across multiple crowded floors.
Marketplace in Chiang Mai
Night Bazaar
Vibrant Evening Market in Chiang Mai
This market fills each evening with food stalls selling khao soi and grilled meats. Live music drifts between stalls selling handicrafts from surrounding hill tribes. Visitors can sample a different regional dish at nearly every stall along the strip. Massage stands operate alongside food vendors, offering a break between rounds of eating.
State/Prefecture in Japan
Hokkaido
Volcanoes, powder snow and fresh seafood
Fresh crab and uni from cold northern waters supply seafood markets across this island. Dairy farms here produce much of the country's butter, cheese and soft serve ice cream. Visitors can eat fresh seafood bowls at a market before ramen shops nearby. Miso ramen, developed here, uses a rich broth associated specifically with the region.
City in India
Hyderabad
Where Ancient Meets Tech Revolution
Biryani here gets slow cooked in a sealed pot, a method known locally as dum. Old city lanes near the Charminar sell haleem, a slow simmered meat and wheat dish. Visitors can sample irani chai at a cafe serving the drink for decades. Street stalls sell bagara baingan, a tangy aubergine curry, alongside other favourites.
Country
Nicaragua
Tropical beauty with volcanic charm
Vigoron, a dish of boiled yuca topped with pork rind and slaw, is a beloved street food. Street stalls sell nacatamales, corn dough parcels steamed in banana leaves, at weekends. Visitors can sample gallo pinto, rice and beans, at a market stall each morning. Markets sell tropical fruit and fresh juice pressed to order nearby.
City in China
Tianjin
Where History Meets Modernity
Goubuli baozi, steamed buns filled with pork, originated in this port city's bakeries. Street stalls sell jianbing, a savoury folded crepe, at breakfast across the city. Visitors can sample erduoyan fried cakes, a local speciality, at a shop downtown. Ancient Culture Street sells snacks alongside crafts near the river.
City in Uzbekistan
Samarkand
The Silk Road’s Shimmering Gem
Plov, a rice dish cooked with meat and carrots, is this Silk Road city's signature meal. Siab Bazaar sells spices, dried fruit and fresh non bread beneath open air stalls. Visitors can sample fresh bread pulled straight from a clay tandoor oven. Tea houses near the old trading domes serve green tea alongside pastries.
City in Italy
Florence
The cradle of the Renaissance
Lampredotto sandwiches, made from stewed tripe, remain a beloved Florentine street food. Mercato Centrale gathers food stalls under one roof near the city's train station. Visitors can sample fresh pasta and cured meats at stalls inside the market. Gelaterias nearby sell flavours made fresh each morning using traditional recipes.
City in India
Jaipur
The Pink City of Royal Splendor
Pyaaz kachori, a fried pastry stuffed with spiced onions, is a beloved breakfast snack. Street stalls near the old city walls sell dal baati churma, a Rajasthani speciality. Visitors can sample lassi served in clay cups at a shop near Hawa Mahal. Markets sell dried fruit and sweets made from milk reduced over low heat.
City in Pakistan
Karachi
A city of history, culture and energy
Nihari, a slow cooked stew, remains a beloved breakfast dish sold at old city stalls. Street vendors grill seekh kebabs over charcoal along busy evening market lanes. Visitors can sample bun kebab, a spiced patty sandwich, at a roadside stand. Empress Market sells produce, spices and meat beneath a colonial era clock tower.
Neighbourhood in New York City
Chinatown
Vibrant Hubs of Chinese Culture
Dim sum carts still roll through some of this neighbourhood's oldest restaurants on weekend mornings. Bakeries sell egg tarts and roast pork buns fresh from ovens facing the pavement. Visitors can eat soup dumplings at a counter before browsing herbal shops nearby. Fishmongers display the day's catch on ice along Canal Street's crowded stalls.
City in China
Xiamen
Coastal Charm and Island Adventures
Oyster omelets, cooked on a hot griddle, remain this coastal city's signature street food. Shaguo noodles, simmered in a clay pot, appear at stalls across the old town. Visitors can sample peanut soup, a local speciality, at a shop near Zhongshan Road. Markets sell dried seafood brought in from boats docked along the harbour.
City in Canada
Toronto
A vibrant mix of cultures and skyline
Peameal bacon sandwiches, sold from a market stall since the 1800s, remain a local classic. St. Lawrence Market holds vendors selling produce, meat and prepared food under one roof. Visitors can sample dim sum in Chinatown before butter tarts at a nearby bakery. Immigrant neighbourhoods have shaped entire culinary scenes across the city.
Outer Territory in France
Réunion
An Island of Adventure and Beauty
Cari, a Creole curry blending French, Indian and African influences, anchors most local meals. Street stalls sell samosas and bonbons piment, spiced fritters, at markets islandwide. Visitors can sample rougail saucisse, a spiced sausage dish, at a roadside stand. Markets sell vanilla and tropical produce grown across the island's volcanic slopes.
City in Brazil
Salvador
Afro-Brazilian Soul on the Sea
Acaraje, fried bean fritters filled with shrimp, remain this city's most iconic street food. Vendors dressed in traditional Bahian white sell the dish from stalls across the city. Visitors can sample moqueca, a coconut based fish stew, at a market restaurant. Mercado Modelo sells produce, crafts and prepared food near the old harbour.
City in China
Nanjing
Where Ancient History Meets Modern Charm
Duck blood soup, a local speciality, gets sold at stalls across this ancient capital. Salted duck, a regional dish, appears at markets and restaurants throughout the city. Visitors can sample tangbao, soup filled dumplings, at a shop near the old streets. Confucius Temple's night market sells skewers and snacks along the river.
City in China
Sanya
Tropical Beaches and Island Vibes
This tropical city sits at China's southernmost point, ringed by beach resorts and palm groves. Yalong Bay holds seafood markets selling the day's catch to nearby restaurants. Visitors can dive coral reefs near Wuzhizhou Island before dinner on the beach. Night markets sell grilled skewers and tropical fruit well into the evening.
City in Vietnam
Hue
Imperial Vietnam on the Perfume River
Bun bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, remains this former imperial capital's signature dish. Street vendors sell banh khoai, a crispy stuffed pancake, at stalls near the citadel. Visitors can sample com hen, rice topped with baby clams, at a riverside stall. Royal court cuisine here reflects centuries of Nguyen dynasty culinary tradition.
City in United States
Portland (Oregon)
Quirky, green and endlessly creative
Food carts cluster in pods across the city, serving cuisines from dozens of countries. Farm to table kitchens here draw heavily on produce grown throughout the Willamette Valley. Visitors can pair a late night doughnut with dinner at a chef driven restaurant. Craft breweries and coffee roasters have multiplied across the city's neighbourhoods.
City in Taiwan
Taichung
Creative city with a sweet side
Bubble tea is widely said to have been invented at a tea shop in this city. Night markets sell grilled squid and stinky tofu along long pedestrian strips. Visitors can sample sun cakes, a flaky pastry, at bakeries near the train station. Second Market sells produce and prepared food beneath a restored colonial era hall.
City in Morocco
Rabat
A Hidden Gem with Royal Flair
Street stalls near the medina sell msemen, a layered flatbread, alongside sweet mint tea. Fish markets by the coast supply grilled sardines sold at stands each evening. Visitors can sample harira, a hearty soup, at a stall during the cooler months. Central markets sell olives, spices and produce along covered, shaded lanes.
City in United States
New Orleans
Jazz, Creole Flavors and Mardi Gras Vibes
Gumbo, jambalaya and po'boys reflect this city's blend of French, African and Spanish roots. Beignets served with chicory coffee remain a breakfast tradition dating back generations. Visitors can pair a muffuletta sandwich with live jazz at a French Quarter restaurant. Crawfish boils each spring draw crowds to backyard gatherings across the city.
City in Iran
Isfahan
Persia's Architectural Masterpiece
Bazaar-e Bozorg has sold spices, textiles and sweets beneath its vaulted brick ceilings for centuries. Beryani, a spiced minced meat dish, remains a local speciality found at old eateries. Visitors can sample faloodeh, a frozen dessert made with thin noodles and rosewater. Tea houses near the main square serve saffron tea alongside traditional pastries.
City in Egypt
Cairo
Where ancient history meets bustling life
Koshari carts sell a layered dish of rice, lentils and pasta topped with fried onions. Street vendors grill corn and sweet potatoes over charcoal along busy evening pavements. Visitors can sample ful medames, stewed fava beans, at a stall that opens before sunrise. Sugarcane juice stands press drinks fresh from stalks stacked at the counter.
City in Mexico
Puerto Vallarta
Beaches, sunsets and vibrant streets
Fish tacos sold from beachfront carts remain a defining meal along this coastal town. Street vendors grill elote, corn coated in mayonnaise, cheese and chilli powder. Visitors can sample birria tacos at a stand near the malecon each evening. Markets sell fresh tropical fruit and juice pressed to order for passing visitors.
City in South Africa
Durban
Sunny beaches and rich culture
Bunny chow, a hollowed loaf filled with curry, originated in this city's Indian community. Street vendors sell boerewors rolls grilled over open coals near the beachfront. Visitors can sample samosas and other Indian snacks at a market stall downtown. Victoria Street Market sells spices by the sack alongside fresh produce.
City in United States
Seattle
Where nature and innovation converge
Pike Place Market has supplied the city's kitchens with fish, produce and flowers since 1907. Fishmongers here still toss whole salmon across the counter to waiting customers. Visitors can sample fresh oysters at a raw bar before browsing nearby food stalls. Coffee roasters across the city trace their roots to shops that opened decades ago.
Street in Chengdu
Jinli Ancient Street
Chengdu's Cultural and Culinary Gem
This restored Chengdu lane recreates a Qing dynasty streetscape lined with snack vendors. Sichuan peppercorns give many stalls here a distinctive numbing heat in their dishes. Visitors can sample candied fruit skewers and spicy noodles while browsing teahouses nearby. Shadow puppet shops and traditional craft stalls sit alongside the food vendors.
City in China
Shanghai
A dazzling mix of modernity and tradition
Xiaolongbao, soup filled dumplings, are carefully pleated by hand at restaurants across the city. Old Shanghai cuisine leans on rich, sweet sauces built around soy and sugar. Visitors can pair street snacks in the French Concession with a market meal that evening. Tea houses nearby serve delicate pastries alongside pours from across China.
City in Italy
Rome
The Eternal City of history and charm
Cacio e pepe, made from just cheese, pepper and pasta water, defines Roman cooking's simplicity. Trattorias in Trastevere have served the same handful of pasta dishes for generations. Visitors can pair carbonara with a glass of local white before gelato nearby. Testaccio Market supplies kitchens with offal cuts still central to Roman recipes.
Marketplace in Tel Aviv
Carmel Market
Tel Aviv’s Bustling Open Market
This market sells produce, spices and baked goods late into the afternoon. Hummus and falafel stands draw long queues from both locals and visiting chefs. Visitors can sample fresh juice and halva before browsing dried fruit and nuts. Side streets near the market hold small bars that stay open after the stalls close.
City in Peru
Lima
Historic Charm Meets Coastal Vibes
Ceviche, raw fish cured in citrus, defines much of this coastal capital's culinary identity. Chef Gaston Acurio helped draw global attention to Peruvian ingredients and cooking traditions. Visitors can sample causa, a layered potato dish, at markets across the city. Pisco sours remain the standard aperitif at restaurants ranging from casual to formal.
City in Turkey
Izmir
Aegean breeze, bazaars and ancient soul
Kumru sandwiches, filled with sausage and cheese, remain a beloved street food unique to this city. Kemeralti Bazaar sells spices, olives and produce along covered, centuries old lanes. Visitors can sample boyoz, a flaky pastry with roots in the city's Sephardic Jewish community. Seafood restaurants along the waterfront serve the day's catch each evening.
City in Dominican Republic
Santo Domingo
Colonial charm meets Caribbean buzz
Street stalls sell chicharron and tostones, fried plantain, from carts near the colonial zone. Mangu, mashed plantain served for breakfast, remains a beloved daily staple here. Visitors can sample empanadas at a stand before browsing markets in the old town. Mercado Modelo sells produce, crafts and prepared food across its crowded stalls.
City in Japan
Sapporo
Snow festival city with ramen and beer
Miso ramen, developed in this city, uses a rich broth associated specifically with the region. Crab markets nearby sell live king crab pulled from cold northern waters. Visitors can pair fresh seafood with local beer at a market stall. Soup curry, a lighter local speciality, blends Japanese and Southeast Asian influences.
City in Vietnam
Nha Trang
Vietnam’s Beachfront Playground & Reefs
Bun cha ca, fish cake noodle soup, remains a beloved dish across this coastal city. Seafood markets near the beach sell the morning's catch to nearby restaurants. Visitors can sample banh can, small savoury pancakes, at a family run stall. Night markets along the promenade sell grilled skewers and drinks after dark.
City in Japan
Yokohama
Japan's port city with Chinatown and skyline
This city's Chinatown, one of the largest in Asia, holds hundreds of restaurants and food stalls. Street vendors sell steamed buns and fried dumplings along narrow, crowded lanes. Visitors can sample pork buns at a shop that has served the dish for generations. Ramen museums nearby recreate old streetscapes alongside working noodle counters.
Marketplace in China
Temple Street Night Market
Vibrant Nightlife and Market Buzz
Neon signs light this Hong Kong market as vendors set up food stalls each evening. Seafood restaurants here serve crab and prawns cooked to order at plastic tables. Visitors can eat claypot rice or noodle soup before browsing fortune tellers nearby. Karaoke stalls and street performers add to the market's after dark atmosphere.
City in Mexico
Mérida
Colonial charm and Yucatán culture
Cochinita pibil, pork slow roasted in banana leaves, remains this region's signature dish. Market stalls sell panuchos, fried tortillas stuffed with beans and topped with meat. Visitors can sample marquesitas, a crispy rolled crepe filled with cheese, at a stand. Mercado Lucas de Galvez sells produce and prepared food across its crowded halls.
City in United States
Nashville
Music, hot chicken and honky tonks
Hot chicken, coated in a fiery spice paste, remains this city's famous local dish. Meat and three diners serve a rotating menu of Southern sides alongside a main. Visitors can sample biscuits and gravy at a diner serving the dish for decades. Food trucks parked near music venues serve barbecue well into the evening.
City in United States
Miami
Vibrant City of Sun and Fun
Cuban sandwiches and cafecito remain daily rituals in neighbourhoods shaped by decades of immigration. Latin American chefs have turned the city into a hub for pan regional dining. Visitors can pair stone crab claws with a cortadito at a classic Cuban diner. Wynwood's food halls gather dozens of vendors representing cuisines from across the hemisphere.
City in Japan
Nagoya
Castle, car makers and miso-rich food
Hitsumabushi, grilled eel served three ways over rice, remains this city's signature dish. Tebasaki, deep fried chicken wings, gets sold at izakayas across the city each evening. Visitors can sample miso katsu, a breaded cutlet topped with red miso sauce. Kishimen, flat wheat noodles, appear at shops found throughout the region.
City in Japan
Hiroshima
Peace Park, okonomiyaki and Miyajima ferry
Okonomiyaki here gets layered with noodles, a style distinct from the Osaka version. Oyster stalls near the port sell the region's prized catch grilled or fried. Visitors can sample momiji manju, maple leaf shaped cakes, at shops near the ferry dock. Izakayas across the city pour local sake alongside small, shareable dishes.
Marketplace in Bangkok
Chatuchak Market
World's Largest Weekend Shopping Maze
More than eight thousand stalls pack this market, selling food, clothes and antiques. Grilled skewers and coconut ice cream keep shoppers fuelled through the weekend heat. Visitors can navigate covered lanes with a map, since getting lost here is common. Vendors here sell mango sticky rice alongside crafts from across Thailand.
City in Japan
Kanazawa
Samurai streets, gold leaf and Kenrokuen garden
Fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan supplies sushi counters across this coastal city. Omicho Market has supplied local kitchens with fish, crab and produce for centuries. Visitors can sample kaiseki, a multicourse traditional meal, at a converted teahouse. Gold leaf, produced locally, sometimes tops sweets sold near the historic district.
Marketplace in Ho Chi Minh City
Ben Thanh Market
Vibrant Heart of Saigon Shopping
This covered market has anchored the city centre since the French colonial era. Food stalls inside serve pho and banh xeo alongside stands selling spices and silk. Visitors can eat a full meal at the market before browsing souvenir vendors. An outdoor night market sets up food stalls along the surrounding streets after dark.
City in Japan
Hakodate
Harbour night view, seafood and a star fort
The morning market here sells fresh uni, crab and squid from cold northern waters. Vendors let visitors build their own seafood rice bowl, picking toppings stall by stall. Visitors can sample grilled squid on a stick fresh off a charcoal grill. Salt ramen, a lighter broth style, is closely associated with this coastal city.
Marketplace in Cairo
Khan el-Khalili
Vibrant Historic Bazaar Bustling
This Cairo bazaar has traded spices, textiles and jewellery since the fourteenth century. Coffee houses tucked between stalls have served customers for generations near the market's edges. Visitors can sip mint tea while browsing copper lamps and inlaid wood boxes. Street vendors nearby sell koshari, a layered dish of rice, lentils and pasta.
City in Japan
Okinawa City
Live music, Eisa dance and champuru culture
Taco rice, a fusion dish blending Mexican and American flavours, originated near this city's bases. Street stalls sell Okinawa soba, a wheat noodle soup topped with pork belly. Visitors can sample sata andagi, a fried doughnut, at a stand near the market. Kokusai Street style vendors sell purple sweet potato snacks throughout the area.
City in Japan
Kagoshima
Volcano views, samurai history and black pork
Kurobuta pork, raised locally, gets grilled and served at restaurants across this city. Shirokuma, a shaved ice dessert topped with fruit, remains a summer speciality here. Visitors can sample sweet potato shochu at a distillery tasting room downtown. Markets sell satsuma citrus, grown across the surrounding hills, each winter season.
Island in Japan
Okinawa Island
Reef beaches and Ryukyu Kingdom heritage
Goya champuru, a stir fry built around bitter melon, remains this island's signature dish. Markets sell purple sweet potato and pork products found nowhere else in Japan. Visitors can sample Okinawa soba at a shop that has served the dish for generations. Awamori, a distilled spirit, pairs with grilled pork at izakayas across the islands.
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