Beyond Bangkok
Southeast and East Asia have remarkable street food scenes. If you want variety without the biggest crowds, consider these.
Places to try
- Penang, Malaysia: Hawker stalls serving char kway teow, assam laksa and cendol. George Town is a great base.
- Taipei, Taiwan: Night markets such as Shilin, Raohe and Ningxia serve oyster omelettes, fried chicken and bubble tea.
- Hanoi, Vietnam: Pho, bun cha and egg coffee in the Old Quarter.
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Banh mi, broken rice and sizzling pancakes.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand: Khao soi and northern sausages at markets and night bazaars.
- Singapore: Hawker centres such as Maxwell and Lau Pa Sat.
How to eat well
- Choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Watch how food is cooked and handled.
- Carry small notes and hand sanitiser.
- Drink bottled or sealed water in places where tap water is unsafe.
- Share dishes to try more.
Timing
Many markets open in the evening, though morning markets are good for breakfast. Go earlier or midweek for smaller crowds.
Opening times vary, so check locally.
