Kuala Lumpur’s Street food is top seven in Asia as culinary destination

18 February 2025

SINGAPORE: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has been named among the top seven cities in Asia for street food, offering a wealth of culinary delights for travellers eager to discover diverse flavours.

Jalan Alor, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, is the go-to destination for street food enthusiasts, boasting a unique blend of Malaysian, Thai, and Chinese flavours. The street is lined with long-established hawker stalls, some of which have been in operation for decades, serving a range of dishes from charcoal-grilled satay to stir-fried noodles late into the night. This vibrant mix of traditional vendors and evolving food trends makes Jalan Alor a popular haunt for both locals and tourists alike.

According to digital travel platform Agoda, Kuala Lumpur is one of seven Asian cities that excel in street food, joining the likes of Bangkok and Seoul in offering a sensory feast for visitors. These destinations provide a compelling reason to return, with their bustling markets, aromatic stalls, and authentic local cuisine.

Recent research conducted by Agoda reveals that sampling local food is consistently ranked among the top reasons for revisiting a destination. Street food, in particular, provides a genuine taste of local culture, making it an essential experience for any traveller.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, "Street food is the heartbeat of many Asian cities, and Agoda is excited to spotlight these culinary havens. Whether it's the bustling street vendors of Bangkok or the enticing night markets of Taipei, Agoda offers great deals on accommodation, flights, and activities to help travellers savour every flavour."

Agoda highlighted seven street-food cities that promise travellers an unrivalled culinary adventure, starting with Bangkok, Thailand, where Yaowarat Street in Bangkok's Chinatown is a haven for local street-food enthusiasts. The bustling streets feature a range of stalls serving Guay Jub, a peppery pork broth noodle soup, alongside fresh seafood options like grilled prawns and spicy crab curry. This offers a genuine taste of Bangkok's culinary heritage.

In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Ho Thi Ky Street is a local favourite, known for its lively flower market and diverse street food offerings. Visitors can enjoy dishes like banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese pizza), grilled food, and Che (sweet dessert soup), all set against the energetic street atmosphere and friendly vendors.

Osaka, Japan's 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, 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 flavours provide an authentic taste of Korean culture.

Singapore's 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's 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.

These cities not only offer a feast for the taste buds but also provide a cultural experience that keeps visitors coming back for more. Travelers can explore Agoda's extensive range of over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking.