When it comes to street food, India is in a league of its own. From the smoky corners of Delhi to the bustling paths of Mumbai, the country's culinary spirit lives and breathes on its streets. But when a global list of the World's 50 Best Street Foods dropped recently, the usual crowd-pleasers like Vada Pav and Pani Puri were nowhere to be seen. Instead, three other Indian favourites, Parotta, Amritsari Kulcha, and Chole Bhature, stole the global spotlight.
Revealed by TasteAtlas, a popular online food guide known for its global rankings, the list positions Indian breads right at the top tier of the '50 Best Street Foods' in the world. And while most desis might debate which dish deserves the crown, there's no denying the sheer joy these three bring to the table and the street.
Parotta
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Ranked in the fifth position, Parotta is a beloved South Indian flatbread that proves that good things come in buttery, crispy layers. Found sizzling on roadside stalls across Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Parotta is more than just bread; it's a staple. Often paired with spicy chicken or mutton curry, Parotta has long been a street food staple in the South and now it’s earning the global praise it deserves.
Amritsari Kulcha
Representative image | Canva
Coming in at a strong sixth position, the Amritsari Kulcha brings North India's love for bold flavours and warm hospitality into one glorious bite. Baked in a tandoor, this leavened bread is a beloved dish of many in India, offering delectable flavours in every way. With roots tracing back to the community kitchens of the Golden Temple, this dish is more than street food; it's a piece of Punjab's soul.
Chole Bhature
Representative image | Canva
At number forty, Chole Bhature is the kind of street food that needs no introduction in North India. A breakfast favourite turned all-day indulgence, this dish combines soft, puffed-up bhature with spicy, tangy chole. Originally popularised in Delhi post-Partition, it’s now found everywhere from office canteens to roadside dhabas. It’s hearty, messy, and utterly addictive – you cannot miss it.
Which is the number one street food in the world?
While India's savoury delights proudly made the cut, the top spot on the list went to Garantita, a lesser-known yet beloved Algerian chickpea-based street food. Following it were flavourful Asian entries like Chinese Guotie, Indonesian Siomay, and Mexico's cheesy, meaty Quesabirria.
