When traveling—or even just exploring new foods at home—street food is one of the best ways to experience a country’s culture. But if you’ve got picky eaters, trying new flavors can feel like a challenge. Luckily, some street foods are universally loved, even by kids! Whether it’s something crispy, cheesy, or sweet, these handheld delights are easy to eat and packed with flavors that won’t overwhelm little taste buds. Here are ten street foods from around the world that your kids will love, and you might just find yourself sneaking a few bites, too!
1. Takoyaki (Japan)
Takoyaki are round, golden-brown balls made from a savory pancake-like batter and cooked in special cast-iron molds. Traditionally, they’re filled with bits of octopus, but don’t let that scare you away! Many stalls also serve kid-friendly versions stuffed with cheese, sausage, or shrimp. Topped with a drizzle of Japanese mayo, savory sauce, and a sprinkle of seaweed, these little bites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—perfect for tiny hands to grab and gobble up.
2. Arepas (Colombia & Venezuela)
Arepas are thick, round corn cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried. They’re naturally gluten-free and can be filled with anything from cheese to shredded chicken. The most kid-approved version? A simple, cheese-stuffed arepa! Warm, melty, and easy to hold, these delicious pockets make a great on-the-go snack. Plus, they can be customized with different fillings, so even the pickiest eater will find something they like.
3. Poffertjes (Netherlands)
Think of poffertjes as the fluffiest mini pancakes you’ve ever had! These little Dutch treats are made with yeast and buckwheat flour, giving them an airy texture. They’re cooked on a special griddle and served with powdered sugar and butter. Some vendors even add chocolate or fruit toppings. Because they’re small and sweet, they make a perfect street snack for kids who love pancakes (which, let’s be honest, is most of them!).
4. Elote (Mexico)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a fun way to get kids to eat their vegetables! It’s usually grilled and slathered with a mix of mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder. If your child isn’t a fan of spice, you can ask for a mild version with just butter and cheese. The corn-on-the-cob format makes it easy to hold and fun to eat—kind of like a savory popsicle!
5. Currywurst (Germany)
If your child loves hot dogs, they’ll love currywurst! This German favorite is made of sliced bratwurst sausage covered in a sweet and tangy curry ketchup. It’s usually served with a side of crispy fries, making it a kid-friendly meal that feels familiar yet exciting. Plus, the mild but flavorful sauce is a fun way to introduce kids to a new kind of seasoning without overwhelming their taste buds.
6. Bunny Chow (South Africa)
Despite its name, bunny chow has nothing to do with rabbits! This South African street food is a hollowed-out bread loaf filled with delicious, mild curry. While the traditional version can be spicy, many places offer kid-friendly versions with chicken or vegetable curry. The best part? Kids will love eating their edible “bowl” as they go!
7. Bánh Mì (Vietnam)
Bánh mì is Vietnam’s take on a sandwich—light, crispy French baguettes stuffed with a variety of fillings. The traditional version comes with pork, pate, and pickled veggies, but many vendors offer simple, kid-friendly options like grilled chicken, fried egg, or just butter and cheese. The bread’s crispy-yet-soft texture and mild flavors make it a hit with little ones.
8. Gimbap (South Korea)
Gimbap is often called “Korean sushi,” but unlike sushi, it doesn’t contain raw fish—making it much more appealing to cautious eaters. These seaweed-wrapped rice rolls are filled with ingredients like egg, carrot, cucumber, and cooked meats. The mild flavors and fun, bite-sized pieces make gimbap an easy-to-eat street snack that’s perfect for kids on the go.
9. Churros (Spain & Latin America)
It’s hard to find a kid who would turn down a churro! These deep-fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in cinnamon sugar. They’re often served with chocolate or caramel dipping sauce, making them an extra special treat. Whether you’re walking through the streets of Madrid or stopping by a food truck at home, churros are a sweet street food favorite for all ages.
10. Jianbing (China)
Jianbing is a Chinese street food similar to a crepe. It’s made with a thin batter, spread onto a hot griddle, then filled with egg, crispy wonton, scallions, and sauces. For kids, vendors can customize it by leaving out the spicy ingredients and keeping it simple with just egg and cheese. The crispy-yet-chewy texture and mild flavors make it an easy introduction to Chinese cuisine.
