Street food is an important facet of life in Asia. Photo: Pragyan Bezbaruah/Pexels
There’s a significant portion of people who love ‘lists’, especially those related to food. A cause of debate for many Asians is where to find the best food in the region. Fortunately, Agoda is attempting to dissipate that debate with its unveiling of the best street food havens in Asia.
In a recent release, the digital travel platform highlights a list of seven cities in Asia that specialise in street food. From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the aromatic stalls of Seoul, these destinations offer a feast for the senses as well as a compelling reason to return.
Recent research from Agoda reveals that tasting local cuisines consistently ranks among the top reasons for revisiting destinations. Street food, in particular, offers an authentic taste of local culture, making it a must-do experience for any traveller.
“Street food is the heartbeat of many Asian cities, and Agoda is excited to spotlight these culinary havens,” explains Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda. “Whether it’s the bustling street vendors of Bangkok or the enticing night markets of Taipei, we want to help travellers savour every flavour.”
Here are the best street food cities in Asia that promise travellers an unsurpassed culinary adventure.
Bangkok, Thailand
Vibrant nightlife on Yaowarat Road, Bangkok. Photo by Mike González/Pexels
Yaowarat, one of the main streets in Bangkok’s Chinatown, is a paradise for local street-food enthusiasts. Stalls worth exploring feature Guay Jub, a peppery meat broth noodle soup, along with fresh seafood options like grilled prawns and spicy crab curry. The bustling streets offer a genuine taste of Bangkok’s culinary heritage.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Thi Ky Street is a local favourite in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its lively flower market and diverse street food offerings. Popular dishes include banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese pizza), grilled food, and Che (sweet dessert soup). The energetic street atmosphere and friendly vendors make it an essential stop for food enthusiasts.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang. Photo: Mehdi Ben/Unsplash
Jalan Alor is Kuala Lumpur’s go-to spot for street food, known for its mix of Malaysian, Thai, and Chinese flavours. From charcoal-grilled satay to stir-fried noodles, the street is lined with decades-old hawker stalls serving late into the night. Its unique mix of old-school vendors and evolving food trends makes it a key destination for both locals and tourists.
Osaka, Japan
Kuromon Ichiba Market is the epicenter of Osaka’s street food scene, where Takoyaki (octopus balls) and Okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) reign supreme. The dynamic market and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for foodies.
Seoul, South Korea
Bibimbap. Photo: Becerra Govea/Pexels
South Korea topped Agoda’s Return Visitor Ranking survey as the premier food destination. In Seoul, Mangwon Market stands out as a street food paradise, offering delights like Bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), Bibimbap, and Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes). The market’s lively energy and traditional flavors provide an authentic taste of Korean culture.
Singapore
Lau Pa Sat is a prime location for street food in Singapore. Famous for its satay street, where skewers of grilled meat are served with peanut sauce, the historic market is a culinary hotspot. It also offers a diverse array of local dishes, including Hainanese chicken rice and Char kway teow.
Taipei, Taiwan
Ningxia Night Market, Taiwan. Photo: K X I T H V I S U A L S/Unsplash
Ningxia Night Market is a haven for food lovers in Taipei. From oyster vermicelli to stinky tofu and braised pork rice, the market’s diverse offerings cater to every palate. The bustling stalls and crowds create an exciting culinary journey.
