Where to Eat and What to Try

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Ever dreamt of eating your way through Southeast Asia? I did just that, finding the best spots in 12 cities. Join me to uncover the best cities for foodies in Southeast Asia.

Exploring Southeast Asia is a feast, literally. I’ve traveled far and wide here, and the one thing that stands out? The food. Every city feels like it’s competing to wow you with its flavors. And honestly, they all win. From the spicy kick of a street stall in Bangkok to the comforting broth of Vietnamese pho, every dish is memorable.

I’m sharing this journey because these places, these flavors, they’re too good to keep to myself. I’ll guide you through my top pick of the best foodie cities in SE Asia. From hidden gems where locals dine to the famous eateries that have earned international acclaim, I’ve got you covered.

Are you ready to discover where to find the best food in Southeast Asia? Let’s get started. Trust me, by the end of this, you’ll be booking your next flight to chase these flavors yourself!

Best cities for foodies in SE Asia

1. Penang, Malaysia

Penang grabs the title as my top spot for food in Southeast Asia, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve had a taste. The blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines here is something else.

Take Char Kway Teow, for instance. Those smoky, spicy noodles loaded with fresh prawns and crunchy bean sprouts from a hawker stall called Ah Leng’s are unforgettable. There’s often a wait to eat here, but the food is fresh and absolutely delicious.

You can’t skip the Assam Laksa at Air Itam Market, either. The broth is the perfect balance of tangy and spicy, a real treat in Penang’s heat. It’s these flavors that make Penang stand out. Each dish feels like diving into a melting pot of cultures.

Gurney Drive is my go-to for a food crawl. You get to sample a bit of everything Penang has to offer. Then there’s Chulia Street for late-night snacks. The vibe is electric, and the food, like the Char Koay Kak at Liang’s, will keep you coming back for more.

Penang welcomes you with its bold flavors and keeps you coming back for the warmth of its food. The city has this unique way of making you feel at home with its food. Believe me, it’s one of the best cities for food in Southeast Asia.

2. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a feast for the senses, especially when it comes to food. Pad Thai is a classic here, and for good reason. The version served at Thip Samai is legendary. The noodles are perfectly chewy, and that tamarind flavor hits you just right. They’ve been doing this for years, and you can taste the expertise in every bite, a standout experience among Bangkok restaurants.

Then there’s street food, which Bangkok does like nowhere else. Yaowarat Road in Chinatown lights up at night with stalls serving everything from satay to mango sticky rice. My favorite has to be the grilled pork skewers from a little cart that’s always parked near the corner of Yaowarat and Phadung Dao Street. The smell alone will guide you right to it.

And for something truly Bangkok, you can’t miss boat noodles near Victory Monument. The tiny bowls are rich, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying. Boat Noodle Alley has a few vendors, but my go-to is always the one with the blue chairs. Don’t ask me the name; the blue chairs are the landmark!

In Bangkok, the food is about the experience as much as it is about the flavors. It’s vibrant, it’s diverse, and it never fails to surprise you. That’s why I love it here. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia.

3. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is all about the Pho, and let me tell you, there’s nothing like starting your day with a steaming bowl of it. Pho Thin on Lo Duc Street does it like no other. They’ve got this technique of flash-frying the beef before diving it into the broth, and it’s a game changer. The flavors are so rich and comforting, it’s like a hug in a bowl.

Then there’s Bun Cha. Obama and Bourdain put it on the map for a lot of folks, but Hanoians have loved it long before. Bun Cha Ta is my favorite spot, nestled in the Old Quarter among Hanoi’s coolest restaurants. The grilled pork over rice vermicelli, with a side of herbs and dipping sauce, is perfection.

You can’t visit Hanoi without trying the egg coffee. I was skeptical at first, but trust me, it tastes fantastic. Café Giang is supposedly where it all started. It’s creamy, sweet, and strong, all at once. Think of it as dessert and coffee combined into one delightful cup.

One of the best foodie destinations in Southeast Asia, eating in Hanoi is always an adventure. The city’s signature dishes reflect its history, culture, and the warmth of its people. Every meal is a chance to explore something new, and I just can’t get enough of it.

4. Singapore

Next up on our list of the best cities for foodies in Southeast Asia is Singapore. Honestly, this place is a food lover’s dream.

The iconic dish here is Hainanese chicken rice. My favorite place for this is Tian Tian Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre. The chicken is always silky and the rice, oh, it’s so aromatic. Dip it in their homemade chili sauce, and you’ve got yourself a meal to remember.

Then there’s the Chili Crab, an iconic Singaporean delight. Head over to Long Beach Seafood Restaurant for this. Their version, with the sweet and spicy tomato-based sauce, makes it clear why this dish is a national favorite. Grab a mantou (fried bun) to mop up the sauce, and you’re all set.

And then there’s Laksa, a spicy noodle soup that’s comforting and bold at the same time. 328 Katong Laksa is legendary for its rich coconut-based broth and the perfect balance of spices. It’s a bowl full of Singapore’s essence.

Singapore offers a food scene that’s as varied as its people. You can find everything from hawker stalls to high-end restaurants, each serving dishes that reflect the city’s mix of cultures. Plus, it’s not as expensive as you might think, making it one of the top places to live and visit in Southeast Asia.

5. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

One of my favorite places to visit in Vietnam is Ho Chi Minh City. It’s got a buzzing energy, with a food scene that’s equally lively. It’s famous for Banh Xeo, a crispy, savory pancake that’s all about texture and flavor. Banh Xeo 46A has been my go-to. Their pancakes, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, are huge and incredibly satisfying.

Pho is everywhere in Vietnam, but Pho Hoa on Pasteur Street stands out in Ho Chi Minh City. Their broth is rich and aromatic, a perfect example of this iconic dish. It’s a bustling spot, but the pho is worth any wait.

For something uniquely southern, try Hu Tieu. One of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City is to visit my favorite spot for this noodle soup, Hu Tieu Nam Vang Nhan Quan. They serve it with a clear, sweet broth and a generous helping of seafood and pork. It’s a bowl full of flavors that captures the essence of the city.

Here’s a tip from me to you: always ask the locals where to eat. They’ve led me to some hidden gems that I would never have found otherwise. Trusting their recommendations has not only filled my stomach but also enriched my travel experience. Definitely a foodie city in Southeast Asia to check out!

6. Yangon, Myanmar

Yangon may not be on every foodie’s radar, but it should be. It’s a hidden gem in Asia for food enthusiasts. Mohinga, a fish noodle soup, is the star here. Morning street stalls serve it as breakfast, but you can enjoy it any time. Try it at Myaung Mya Daw Cho, where the broth is rich, aromatic, and utterly comforting.

Tea leaf salad, or Lahpet, is another must-try. It’s this unique mix of textures and flavors that you won’t find elsewhere. For the best Lahpet, head over to Feel Myanmar Food. Their version is packed with crunchy nuts, beans, and that distinctive fermented tea flavor.

For something sweet, Shwe Yin Aye at Shwe Pu Zun Café & Bakery hits the spot. It’s a dessert soup with coconut milk, jelly, and sticky rice that’s refreshing and not too sweet.

So, when you’re looking for foodie cities in Asia, consider Yangon. If you decide to visit, I recommend stepping off the beaten path and into the local markets and street food stalls. That’s where the magic happens.

7. Bandung, Indonesia

Nasi Timbel, rice wrapped in banana leaf, hits differently here. At Warung Nasi Ampera, the side of fried chicken, tofu, and that fresh hit of sambal make it a meal to remember.

Batagor became an obsession after a visit to Kingsley. Think fried fish dumplings but with a twist that only Bandung can pull off. The crunch, the peanut sauce—it’s street food elevated to an art form.

But it’s the Surabi, Bandung’s version of pancakes, that really sets the city apart. Surabi Enhaii with its variety of toppings from chocolate to cheese, showed me a whole new side of Indonesian pancakes. This place alone makes me recommend Bandung to those who ask me where to go for the best food in Southeast Asia.

Bandung surprised me, not just with its food but with its vibrancy and warmth. Every meal here feels like a discovery, offering something unexpected and deliciously different from the rest of Indonesia. It’s the blend of traditional flavors with a hint of something new that makes Bandung’s food scene truly special.

8. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai opened my eyes to a different side of Thai cuisine, one that’s steeped in history and bursting with flavors distinct from Bangkok’s.

Here, it’s all about the Khao Soi. Chiang Mai’s restaurants offer a variety of culinary delights, but this coconut curry noodle soup, with its tender chicken and crispy noodles on top, is something you dream about long after you’ve left. Khao Soi Khun Yai, a small spot near the North Gate, makes the best bowl I’ve ever had. It’s rich, comforting, and utterly delicious.

Another must-try is Sai Oua. This local sausage, packed with herbs and spices, offers a taste of Northern Thailand you can’t find in Bangkok. Visit the bustling Sompet Market to  grab the freshest Sai Oua from vendors who’ve been perfecting their craft for years.

Chiang Mai’s food scene is like stumbling into a hidden culinary garden, especially when you compare it to Bangkok’s wide array. Among the best things to do in Chiang Mai is to experience its chill vibe, with a deep dive into the traditional Lanna culture through its dishes. Trust me, it’s one of the best places for foodies in Southeast Asia.

9. Ipoh, Malaysia

Then there’s the Chicken Taugeh. Lou Wong is the place to go for this. The chicken is unbelievably tender, and the bean sprouts are crisp and fresh. It’s a simple dish, but it’s done to perfection here.

Ipoh’s food has a subtlety to it. Where Penang hits you with bold flavors, Ipoh invites you to appreciate the nuances. It’s less about the spice and more about the depth of flavor. Take their Hor Fun, for example. At Thean Chun, those noodles in the light but flavorful broth are something else.

Ipoh’s vibe gives you the chance to slow down and really taste your food. It’s a quieter, more introspective food experience that’s just as rewarding. If you’re looking for the best cities for food in Malaysia, Ipoh’s gentle but profound flavors are a must-try.

10. Siam Reap, Cambodia

Then there’s the night market near Pub Street. The grilled skewers there? Game-changers. The perfect blend of spices, smoke, and everything nice. It’s the kind of snack that makes you glad you’re here.

Oh, and if you’re up for a wild ride, Friends the Restaurant has got fried tarantulas on the menu. Sounds crazy, but when in Siem Reap, right? If that’s too out there, they’ve got loads of other dishes that’ll keep you hooked.

Siem Reap has a food scene that really stands out, even compared to Phnom Penh. The city’s mix of old-school charm and lively streets makes eating here super cool. It’s the kind of place where you find new favorites and get why Cambodian cuisine is awesome. Check it out if you’re looking for amazing things to do in Cambodia, especially for Southeast Asia’s best cities for foodies.

11. Padang, Indonesia

Padang is the birthplace of some seriously iconic dishes, and yes, Rendang tops that list. This beef dish is a culinary masterpiece. Slow-cooked in coconut milk and a mix of fragrant spices, it comes out so tender and flavorful, it’s hard to stop eating. I had some of the best at Rumah Makan Sederhana, and let me tell you, it sets the bar high.

If you’re looking for the ultimate Nasi Padang, a spread of dishes served with rice, head over to Garuda. The variety is staggering, and each dish is a flavor bomb. Padang cuisine takes you on an adventure of tastes, textures, and aromas, unlike anything else.

Strolling through Padang, you quickly realize this place is one of the best places to go in Asia for food lovers. If you’re into diving deep into Indonesia’s rich and diverse food culture, starting here is a brilliant move.

12. Manila, Philippines

Walking through the streets of Manila, you’re hit with an array of smells and sounds that lead you straight to some unforgettable meals. Adobo, that savory, slightly tangy dish that feels like a warm hug, was a revelation for me. My go-to spot for this classic Filipino comfort food is Adobo Connection. They serve it up just like how someone’s grandmother might.

Let’s not forget about Halo-Halo, the dessert that’s as fun to eat as it is to say. Razon’s of Guagua has this down to an art form. With just the right mix of sweet beans, fruit, ice, and milk, it’s the perfect cool-down treat after a day exploring the city.

I even tried Balut, a real talk-of-the-town kind of snack. This fertilized duck egg might challenge your food boundaries, but it’s a true Filipino delicacy. Hitting up a local street vendor for Balut turned out to be one of those “when in Manila” moments that’s as memorable as it is daring.

The food scene in Manila is full of surprises. It’s got everything from comfort food to wild treats. Whilst it might not be the first place you consider when looking for foodie cities in SE Asia, it’s somewhere I highly recommend checking out.

13: Ubud, Indonesia

Ubud is famous for Bebek Bengil (Crispy Duck). I recommend trying it at the place that started it all, Bebek Bengil Restaurant. Believe me, eating that perfectly crispy duck with a view of the rice paddies is unforgettable.

Then there’s the legendary babi guling, a Balinese roast pork that’s nothing short of spectacular. Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka 3 became my go-to for this delicacy. Their version is succulent and perfectly spiced, capturing the essence of Balinese cuisine.

Ubud isn’t just about the traditional dishes, though. It’s also a haven for health-conscious eaters. At Alchemy, I indulged in the best raw vegan food I’ve ever had. Who knew that raw vegan could taste that good? It’s easily one of the best places to live in Southeast Asia, especially for foodies and digital nomads.

Every meal in Ubud is an adventure, from its signature crispy duck to innovative vegan dishes. This town truly is a food lover’s dream, offering a taste of Bali that you won’t find anywhere else.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the best cities in Southeast Asia for foodies

Which country in Southeast Asia has the best food?

What is the most beautiful country in Southeast Asia?

The most beautiful country in Southeast Asia has to be the Philippines for me. Its islands, beaches, and crystal-clear waters are simply breathtaking, offering postcard-perfect views at every turn. The Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia.

What is the most underrated country in Southeast Asia?

The most underrated country in Southeast Asia is Myanmar. It’s rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes that many travelers overlook. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

What is the least visited country in Southeast Asia?

The least visited country in Southeast Asia is Timor-Leste. It’s off many tourists’ radar, offering untouched natural beauty and a chance to experience its unique culture without the crowds.

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