street food

[ street food ]

noun

1. ready-to-eat food sold on the street or in a park, open-air market, or other outdoor public place.
2. a particular food sold in an outdoor public place.

Word History and Origins

Origin of street food¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Popular for decades as a street food, America's proudest culinary invention – the hamburger – debuted at the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904 alongside other novelties such as Dr. Pepper and ice cream.

From Salon

One of the offerings: takoyaki, sold next to a colorful poster that explains takoyaki is a “beloved Japanese street food … fritters with a variety of delicious toppings.”

From Los Angeles Times

If that’s not your speed, Siam Station is a beloved local Thai street food spot where you can tuck into a hearty pad thai or khao soi, while Helmsman Ale House has fish and chips, wings and a short rib sandwich.

From Los Angeles Times

Flavorful street food sizzles on every corner, rickshaws and scooters blare their horns in symphonic competition, and cats and dogs thread between your legs as pedestrians shuffle shoulder to shoulder.

From Salon

While I never cook for the notoriety, when I opened Balaboosta I did feel I need to prove that I could make upscale food, not just street food.

From Salon