Latin America is a street food paradise. While tacos and empanadas are household names, the region’s culinary scene goes far beyond these staples. Across countries like Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Argentina, street food offers a vibrant, affordable, and deeply rooted expression of local culture. From smoky skewers to cheesy corn cakes, here are some of the most underrated and unforgettable Latin American street foods you should seek out on your next trip—or even recreate at home.
- Anticuchos – Peru
These marinated beef heart skewers are grilled over open flames and served with boiled potatoes and spicy ají sauce. Anticuchos are a staple of Lima’s nighttime street scene and have roots in Afro-Peruvian culinary traditions. They’re smoky, savory, and packed with flavor. Learn more about anticuchos - Arepas – Colombia & Venezuela
A versatile dish made from cornmeal dough, arepas are grilled or fried and stuffed with cheese, meats, eggs, or beans. Venezuelan arepas tend to be thicker and filled, while Colombian versions are often flatter and cheesier. You’ll find arepas sold from morning until late night at street carts throughout Bogotá and Caracas. - Salchipapas – Peru & Bolivia
A popular late-night snack, salchipapas combine sliced fried sausages (salchichas) with crispy French fries, topped with ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and occasionally a fried egg. It’s fast food with a distinctly South American twist, especially beloved by teens and college students. - Pupusas – El Salvador
These thick corn tortillas are hand-shaped and filled with beans, cheese, or pork before being griddled to golden perfection. Served with curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and tomato salsa, pupusas are a must-try Salvadoran comfort food. More on pupusas from Saveur - Choripán – Argentina
Choripán, a blend of chorizo and bread, is often called the Latin American hot dog. Served with chimichurri on a crusty roll, it’s especially popular at fútbol matches and outdoor festivals. While simple, the quality of the sausage and sauce make all the difference. - Elotes and Esquites – Mexico
Elotes (corn on the cob) and esquites (corn in a cup) are classic Mexican street snacks. Both are slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime. They’re rich, tangy, and perfect for munching on the go. - Tostadas de Ceviche – Mexico & Central America
In coastal regions, ceviche is often served on crispy tostadas topped with shrimp, octopus, or fish, marinated in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and tomato. It’s refreshing, protein-rich, and widely available from beach vendors and city markets. - Coxinhas – Brazil
These teardrop-shaped snacks are filled with shredded chicken and cream cheese, then breaded and deep-fried. Crispy outside and creamy inside, coxinhas are found in food stalls and bakeries across Brazil and are often enjoyed with a glass of fresh juice or soda. - Tamales – Central & South America
Wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves, tamales vary by region. In Guatemala, they’re often large and soft with a tomato-based sauce. In Colombia, tamales can include chicken, vegetables, and rice. Each variety is steamed and portable—perfect for breakfast or lunch on the move. - Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza – Mexico
These quesadillas are filled with squash blossoms and cheese, sometimes with mushrooms or epazote. Found at local markets and morning food stalls, they highlight Mexico’s use of seasonal ingredients and indigenous flavors.
Why It’s Worth Going Beyond the Taco
While tacos are iconic—and rightly so—the diversity of Latin American street food deserves more global recognition. Each dish offers insight into regional history, migration, and flavor preferences. Exploring beyond the familiar helps support local vendors and deepens your understanding of Latin America’s dynamic culinary landscape
