Latin America is a street food lover’s paradise. From sizzling tacos in Mexico to sweet churros in Argentina, the streets here are alive with mouthwatering scents and irresistible flavors. Whether you’re backpacking through Bolivia or city-hopping in Colombia, indulging in street food in Latin America is one of the most authentic ways to experience its culture.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across 10 of the most iconic and delicious street food dishes in Latin America—plus tips on where to find them, and how to make the most of your experience with local food tours and expert guides.
1. Tacos al Pastor – Mexico City, Mexico
Few dishes are as iconic as tacos al pastor, Mexico’s beloved street food. Influenced by Lebanese shawarma, these tacos feature spit-roasted pork, marinated in chili and spices, sliced thin, and served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
Where to try them:
- El Huequito (Mexico City)
- Taquería Los Cocuyos (Mexico City)
Pro tip: Book a Mexico City street food tour with a local guide to skip the tourist traps and discover hidden gems.
2. Arepas – Bogotá, Colombia
Arepas are grilled cornmeal cakes stuffed or topped with cheese, meats, or eggs. They’re a Colombian staple, perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Where to try them:
- La Puerta Falsa (Bogotá)
- Street vendors around La Candelaria district
Experience tip: Join a Bogotá food walking tour to sample multiple arepa styles and local drinks like chicha.
3. Empanadas – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Golden, flaky, and filled with spiced beef, chicken, or cheese, empanadas are Argentina’s most craveable snack. Grab one hot off the fryer while wandering Buenos Aires’ colorful neighborhoods.
Where to try them:
- El Sanjuanino (Recoleta, Buenos Aires)
- San Telmo Market food stalls
Travel tip: Combine tango and tastes on an Argentine food tour that includes empanada-making classes.
4. Anticuchos – Lima, Peru
Anticuchos are skewers of marinated meat (often beef heart), grilled to perfection and served with corn or potatoes. Rich in flavor, they’re a must-try in Peru.
Where to try them:
- Grimanesa Vargas Anticuchería (Lima)
- Street vendors in Miraflores and Barranco
Foodie hack: Book a Lima street food night tour to experience local delicacies safely and deliciously.
5. Pupusas – San Salvador, El Salvador
El Salvador’s national dish, pupusas, are thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork, then grilled and topped with curtido (pickled cabbage).
Where to try them:
- Pupusería La Ceiba (San Salvador)
- Local pupuserías across El Salvador
Insider tip: A local guide can help navigate pupusa etiquette—yes, you eat them with your hands!
6. Coxinhas – São Paulo, Brazil
These teardrop-shaped snacks are filled with shredded chicken and creamy cheese, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Coxinhas are Brazil’s ultimate comfort food.
Where to try them:
- Frangó (São Paulo)
- Street vendors near Avenida Paulista
Culinary tip: Pair coxinhas with a cold Guaraná soda during a São Paulo street food tour.
7. Churros – Buenos Aires, Argentina & Mexico City, Mexico
Churros vary across Latin America, but they’re always sweet, crispy, and delightful. In Argentina, they’re filled with dulce de leche. In Mexico, they’re dusted with cinnamon sugar.
Where to try them:
- Churrería El Moro (Mexico City)
- La Giralda (Buenos Aires)
Sweet tip: Try churros with hot chocolate for the full experience.
8. Salteñas – La Paz, Bolivia
These juicy, slightly sweet empanada cousins are filled with meat, potatoes, olives, and spices. Salteñas are often a morning street food—yes, Bolivians eat them for breakfast!
Where to try them:
- Paceña La Salteña (La Paz)
- Street vendors near Plaza Murillo
Local insight: Salteñas are messy—eat them carefully to avoid a juicy explosion!
9. Baleadas – La Ceiba, Honduras
Baleadas are thick flour tortillas folded over refried beans, cheese, and cream. Add eggs, avocado, or meat for a heartier version.
Where to try them:
- Super Baleadas (La Ceiba)
- Street stalls in San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa
Best enjoyed: After a day at the beach or while exploring local markets with a guide.
10. Tamales – Guatemala City, Guatemala
Made with corn dough and filled with meats, chiles, or vegetables, tamales are steamed in banana leaves (not corn husks, like in Mexico), giving them a distinct flavor.
Where to try them:
- Mercado Central (Guatemala City)
- Traditional family-run street carts
Cultural bonus: Ask your local guide about tamales navideños (Christmas tamales) and their festive role in Guatemalan homes.
Final Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Latin America
Safety and hygiene:
- Follow the crowds—locals know best.
- Choose vendors who cook food fresh and use gloves.
Make the most of your trip:
- Book a local food tour on your first day in a new city.
- Learn a few key food phrases in Spanish or Portuguese.
Recommended resources:
Ready to Taste the Best Street Food in Latin America?
There’s no better way to experience the rich culture and vibrant flavors of Latin America than through its street food. From Mexico’s zesty tacos to Peru’s smoky anticuchos, every bite tells a story. Whether you’re eating your way through a city solo or joining a local guide on a food adventure, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Start planning your street food journey today—book a local food tour and taste the heart of Latin America!
