Street food is more than just a quick bite—it’s a window into a culture’s soul. From bustling markets to quiet alleyways, street vendors offer a taste of tradition, innovation, and community. As we journey through 2025, here are the top 10 street foods around the world that you absolutely must try.
1. Jhal Muri – Kolkata, India
A beloved Bengali snack, Jhal Muri is a spicy puffed rice mix tossed with mustard oil, green chilies, peanuts, and a medley of spices. Often served in a paper cone, it’s a favorite among locals for its bold flavors and crunch. Its popularity has even led to its introduction in cities like London and New York, thanks to the Bengali diaspora.
2. Bánh Tráng Trộn – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
This Vietnamese street food is a salad made from shredded rice paper mixed with dried shrimp, herbs, chili, and a tangy dressing. Originating as a snack for schoolchildren, Bánh Tráng Trộn has become a beloved dish across Vietnam and among overseas Vietnamese communities.
3. Hainanese Chicken Rice – Singapore
A dish of poached chicken and seasoned rice, served with chili sauce and usually with cucumber garnishes. It was created by immigrants from Hainan in southern China and adapted from the Hainanese dishes of Wenchang chicken and Wenchang chicken rice. Widely considered one of the national dishes of Singapore, it is most commonly associated with Singaporean cuisine, being widely available in most food courts and hawker centers around the country. Wikipedia
4. Dabeli – Ahmedabad, India
Often referred to as the ‘Kutchi Burger,’ Dabeli consists of a spicy mashed potato filling placed inside a pav (bread roll). Topped with chutneys, pomegranate seeds, and sev, it’s a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. This dish is not just popular in Gujarat but also in Maharashtra. Flamingo Transworld Pvt. Ltd.
5. Takoyaki – Osaka, Japan
These octopus-filled batter balls are a staple of Japanese street food. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they’re typically topped with takoyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger. In 2025, fusion versions like the ‘Okonomiyaki Taco’ are gaining popularity, combining traditional Japanese flavors with global influences.
6. Plant-Based Ramen – Tokyo, Japan
With the rise of plant-based diets, Tokyo’s street food scene has embraced vegan ramen. Restaurants like Afuri offer ‘Vegan Hazelnut Ramen,’ featuring a creamy broth made from soy milk and vegetables, topped with grilled vegetables and marinated mushrooms. It’s a rich and satisfying dish that caters to both vegans and non-vegans alike.
7. Elote – Mexico City, Mexico
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a savory snack that consists of corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, chili powder, cheese, and lime juice. It’s served on a stick for easy eating while walking the streets of Mexico City. In 2025, vendors are introducing even more flavor variations, including spicy sauces and unique toppings, making this beloved snack more exciting than ever.
8. Arepa – Bogotá, Colombia
Arepas are cornmeal cakes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often filled with a variety of ingredients like cheese, meats, or vegetables. In Bogotá, Arepas are served with a variety of toppings, including avocado and sour cream, or as a side with meats like grilled chicken. They’re a staple of Colombian street food and continue to evolve with different regional influences.
9. Samosa – Mumbai, India
Samosas, the iconic deep-fried pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, are a staple street food in Mumbai. Served with tamarind chutney, they are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. In 2025, new variations of samosas are emerging, including those filled with innovative ingredients like quinoa and cheese, adding a modern twist to this classic snack.
10. Kebabs – Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul’s street food scene is dominated by delicious, flame-grilled kebabs. From döner to şiş kebabs, the variety of meat-based skewers and wraps in the Turkish capital is vast. The döner, in particular, has gained global fame, with its thinly sliced meat served in pita bread with yogurt, vegetables, and various sauces. In 2025, these kebabs continue to be a symbol of Turkish street food culture, attracting visitors from around the world.
Conclusion
Street food offers a unique glimpse into the heart of a culture. Whether it’s the spicy kick of Jhal Muri in Kolkata or the smoky flavors of kebabs in Istanbul, each dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and community. As we explore these top 10 street foods of 2025, we celebrate the rich tapestry of flavors that connect us all. So, pack your appetite and embark on a culinary journey across the globe—your taste buds will thank you.
