Best Modern Asian Street Food Delights

Including our own recommendations on places to eat!

Asian street food is a culinary adventure that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavours, bold spices, and unique textures. From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the hidden alleyways of Tokyo, modern Asian street food has evolved into a global sensation. Let's embark on a journey to discover some of the best contemporary Asian street food dishes and the restaurants that have perfected these culinary delights.

Ramen - Japanese

Ramen, the soul-soothing Japanese noodle soup, has taken the world by storm.

Native Restaurant Recommendation: Ichiraku Ramen, Tokyo

Ichiraku Ramen in Tokyo stands out for its rich broths, perfectly cooked noodles, and a plethora of toppings. From classic Shoyu to spicy miso variations, Ichiraku Ramen offers a culinary journey through the diverse world of Japanese noodle soups.

UK Restaurant Recommendation: Shoryu Ramen, Various Locations (London, Manchester, Oxford)

Shoryu Ramen brings the taste of authentic Japanese ramen to the UK. With multiple locations, they offer a range of ramen styles, from classic Shoyu to rich Tonkotsu.

USA Restaurant Recommendation: Ippudo, Various Locations (New York, Berkeley, Santa Monica)

Ippudo is a popular ramen chain with locations across the U.S. Known for its rich and flavourful broths, it's a go-to spot for ramen enthusiasts.

Banh Mi - Vietnamese

The Banh Mi, a Vietnamese sandwich, is a symphony of flavours that combines crispy baguette, savoury meats, pickled vegetables, and a burst of fresh herbs.

Native Restaurant Recommendations: Banh Mi 37, Ho Chi Minh City

Banh Mi 37 in Ho Chi Minh City has garnered acclaim for its perfect balance of textures and the innovative use of ingredients, making it a must-visit for Banh Mi enthusiasts.

UK Restaurant Recommendation: Whaam Banh Mi, London

Enjoy the Vietnamese Banh Mi experience at Whaam Banh Mi, a vibrant spot in London that offers a variety of Banh Mi options with high-quality ingredients and traditional flavours.

USA Restaurant Recommendation: Saigon Shack, New York City

Saigon Shack in NYC is known for its delicious Banh Mi sandwiches, offering a taste of Vietnam in the heart of the city.

Bubble Tea - Taiwanese

Bubble tea, or boba, has become a global phenomenon, with its sweet and chewy tapioca pearls adorning various tea and milk combinations.

Native Tea Shop Recommendation: Chun Shui Tang, Taipei

Chun Shui Tang in Taipei, considered the birthplace of bubble tea, crafts this delightful beverage with precision, offering an array of flavours and customizable options that keep customers coming back for more.

UK Tea Shop Recommendation: Chatime, Various Locations

Chatime is a global bubble tea chain with several locations across the UK. It provides a wide array of bubble tea flavours and toppings, allowing you to customize your drink to your liking.

USA Tea Shop Recommendation: Boba Guys, Various Locations (San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles)

Boba Guys is a bubble tea shop that focuses on quality ingredients and a modern approach, with locations in major cities across the U.S.

Satay – Indonesian

Satay, skewered and grilled meat served with a delectable peanut sauce, is a popular street food across Southeast Asia.

Native Street Vendor Recommendation: Jalan Alor, Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur is a street food haven where vendors expertly grill chicken, beef, and lamb satay, creating a symphony of flavours that captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine.

UK Restaurant Recommendation: Satay House, London

Satay House in London serves up delicious Indonesian satay, offering an authentic taste of this Southeast Asian delight in the heart of the UK.

USA Restaurant Recommendation: Satay Brothers, Miami

Satay Brothers in Miami offers a taste of Indonesian satay, providing a savoury and satisfying experience.

Kimchi Fries – South Korean

Kimchi fries, a fusion of Korean and American flavours, have become a trendy street food offering.

Native Food Truck Recommendation: Kimchi Fries, Seoul

In Seoul, food trucks like "Kimchi Fries" take this dish to the next level by combining crispy fries with spicy kimchi, savoury bulgogi, and a generous drizzle of mayo and sriracha, creating a mouth-watering fusion experience.

UK Restaurant Recommendation: On The Bab, Various Locations (London, Birmingham)

On The Bab is a Korean street food-inspired restaurant that features dishes like Kimchi Fries, bringing a fusion of flavours to the UK.

USA Street Food Vendor Recommendation: Chi'Lantro, Austin

Chi'Lantro in Austin, Texas, started as a food truck and gained fame for its Kimchi Fries, blending Korean and American flavours in a delightful way.

Modern Asian Street food is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the continent, creatively adapted to suit contemporary tastes. The mentioned restaurants and street vendors are just a glimpse into the diverse world of Asian street food, where each dish tells a story of culture, history, and innovation. As you embark on your culinary adventures, be sure to explore the bustling streets and hidden alleys, where the true essence of Asian street food comes to life.

Share your take on modern Asian dishes with the Bitastreet Crew on our social platforms with the hashtag #BitastreetCrew.