(QCOSTARICA) Though San Jose may not be on the CNN list of the “World’s 23 best cities for street food”, you can get some great food on the streets of San Jose, but, you have to really look for it.
San Jose typically doesn’t have street vendors, “street food” is usually under roof, in a soda and in the mercados (markets). This is not “food court” food, the sodas and mercados are an acquired experience.
So, what are the world’s best cities for street food, according to CNN?
Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is the street food capital of Morocco, offering everything from camel spleen kebabs to deep-fried sesame cookies.
Bangkok, Thailand
Few cities can rival Bangkok when it comes to street food variety and quality. Spicy noodles, glistening rice porridge, tender pork legs — all can be had for a handful of change and minimal fuss.
Bali, Indonesia
The best satay sticks in Bali are marinated in turmeric, barbecued over coals and then coated with a generous dose of peanut sauce.
Beijing, China
Jiumen Snack Street and Wangfujing Snack Street (pictured) are two popular destinations for tourists looking for a street food extravaganza. Unusual treats include grilled seahorse and scorpion skewers.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii doesn’t only dish out creative street cuisine. It also has a thriving food truck culture with interesting truck designs.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Some of the best banh mi sandwiches, one of Vietnam’s most loved exports, can be found on the sidewalk in Ho Chi Minh City.
Hong Kong
You know it’s a legit street food city when the Michelin Guide debuted a street food category there. A crispy Hong Kong-style egg waffle is one of the city’s favorites.
Cairo, Egypt
Travelers can explore a whole new world of street snacks in Cairo beyond just falafel and shawarma.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Coconut water and tropical fruit juice popsicles are some of the ideal foods to get when visiting Rio de Janeiro
Mumbai, India
Living in Mumbai, where there’s an unbelievable array of cheap eats in the streets, is both a treat and a threat to one’s waistline.
Sydney, Australia
The Sydney Fish Market is a wonderful place to get fresh seafood. Peter’s Seafood Cafe cooks it in its shop window.
Tokyo, Japan
Home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any city in the world, Tokyo’s street food — be it raw or cooked — is hard to beat.
Rome, Italy
Gelato time in Rome is definitely an Instagrammable moment.
Paris, France
Delicious street food. Delicious views. That’s Paris.
Portland, Oregon
A churro sundae from Churros Locos, a venue in one of the hippest street food cities, Portland.