Quirky does it

1. Hotdogs in California, US

“Purists” would argue that when it comes to hotdogs in the United States, New York is where you want to be. But if you’re looking for something more than the basic fixings, then try Pink’s Hot Dogs in Los Angeles. The original shop has been around for more than 40 years, but Pink’s itself began as a pushcart business in 1939!

If that doesn’t sound exciting enough, then head over to the Santa Monica Pier to look for Japadog, a street food chain from Canada. Japadog serves hotdogs infused with Japanese street food favourites like okonomiyaki, yakisoba and tonkatsu.

2. Balut in the Philippines

OK this actually falls in the “weird” food category but if you have the stomach for it, do try one. Balut is a fertilised duck egg, in which the egg is already developing. It is a street food in the Philippines, said to contain many nutritional values.

3. Tsukiji and Tokyu Food Show in Tokyo, Japan

When it comes to food, Japan does not disappoint. Their food seems to cater to every palate – from the pickiest eaters to hardcore foodies. If you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time and are overwhelmed by the amount of information on where to eat from websites and friends, don’t worry, just head to either Shibuya station or Tsukiji market. Tokyu Food Show is part of the Tokyu Department Store, located next to the busy Shibuya train station. It is a huge space and you get all kinds of local dishes and street food here, as well as desserts that look too cute to eat. However, you can only buy your food to go as there are no seats and tables available.

Tsukiji, on the other hand, has several tiny shops that sell heavenly ramen, udon, sushi and our favourite, tamagoyaki. The chefs make their egg rolls in front of customers too so it’s a great place to take videos.

4. Ambuyat in Borneo

Ambuyat or linut is a sticky, glue-like dish made from sago palm that is said to be the national dish of Brunei, but can also be found in Sabah and Sarawak. Ambuyat on its own is bland, so it is usually eaten with a flavourful soup that comes in many varieties, fried or steamed fish and a soy sauce chilli dip. Ambuyat is not eaten everyday, though, as it is not that easy to make.

5. Stinky tofu in Taiwan

It stinks, but it’s delicious. Stinky tofu has created quite a reputation for itself for its pungent aroma. But many tourists who have dared to try it actually like the taste. It’s a popular street food in Taiwan and the best place to get them is at the night market, which is always a good place to hunt for food and souvenirs!