The Rise of Street Food in Restaurants

Street food has long been a popular option for quick, inexpensive meals in cities around the world. From food trucks to street vendors, street food offers on-the-go snacks and dishes that are reflective of local cultures and flavours. In recent years, high-end restaurants have begun incorporating street food influences into their menus, signalling a merging of street fare with fine dining. In recent years, several renowned street food stalls have also received recognition by the Michelin Guide, the prestigious restaurant rating system.

For example, Michelin-starred street food vendors include Jay Fai in Bangkok, which is known for its crab omelets, and Hiroyasu in Tokyo, which serves high-quality tempura. These street stalls being acknowledged alongside fine dining establishments further demonstrates the elevation of street food’s perception and popularity.

This trend appears to have several driving factors. As consumers become more interested in authenticity and local ingredients, they have a growing appreciation for the type of food traditionally sold by street vendors. The casual, communal nature of street food also aligns with the concern of rising costs in the restaurant industry. Inexpensive street food dishes allow restaurants to provide more approachable and affordable menu options alongside their higher-end offerings.