20 Iconic Hand-Held Foods That Everyone Needs to Try
Some of the best foods don’t need plates or utensils—just your hands and a big appetite. Whether it’s a dripping burger, a crispy empanada, or a buttery croissant, hand-held foods just hit different. They’re made for grabbing on the go, devouring at street markets, or enjoying straight from the wrapper. No fancy dining, no fuss.
From legendary street food to all-American classics, these 20 must-try hand-held eats are packed with flavor. Some are crispy, some are juicy, and a few might get messy—but that’s the fun of it. Which one will you try first?
1. Empanada
A perfectly crispy empanada with its warm, savory filling—what’s not to love? These crescent-shaped pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from beef and chicken to cheese and vegetables. Originating from Spain, empanadas have traveled across the globe, gaining popularity in Latin America and beyond.
Biting into an empanada is like unwrapping a surprise gift, where each flavor-packed bite tells a story of its own. Their portability and delightful flavor combinations make them a must-try for anyone seeking a fulfilling hand-held meal.
2. Banh Mi
A banh mi is a masterpiece of flavors packed into a crispy baguette. Originating from Vietnam, the banh mi combines French influences with vibrant Vietnamese ingredients, resulting in an irresistible fusion of taste and texture.
The bread is light and airy, the ideal vessel for an array of fillings like savory pork, crunchy pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors, making it a beloved street food across the globe.
3. Taco
Tacos are a celebration of Mexican cuisine, offering an explosion of flavor in every bite. These delightful hand-held treats consist of a soft or crispy tortilla filled with a variety of ingredients like grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and zesty salsas.
The beauty of tacos lies in their versatility, allowing for endless creativity and personalization. Everyone enjoys tacos, whether they are enjoying a traditional carnitas taco at their neighborhood taqueria or trying out fusion flavors at a fine dining establishment.
4. Samosa
A beloved snack in Indian cuisine, samosas are known for their crispy, golden-brown pastry and flavorful filling. These triangular delights are typically filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat, offering a harmonious blend of textures and spices.
Great as a street food snack or an appetizer, samosas are enjoyed by people of all ages. Their crunchy exterior gives way to a warm and savory filling that is both comforting and satisfying. They’re a testament to the art of combining simple ingredients to create something truly special.
5. Peking Duck Wrap
The Peking duck wrap is a classic Chinese dish that marries the succulent flavors of roasted duck with fresh, crisp vegetables. Originating from Beijing, this dish has become a symbol of Chinese culinary artistry, often enjoyed during festive occasions.
Wrapped in a delicate flour pancake, the combination of juicy duck slices, crispy skin, and hoisin sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The wraps are typically assembled at the table, allowing diners to customize each bite to their liking.
6. Falafel
A popular street meal in the Middle East, falafel is renowned for both its tasty inside and crunchy outside. Made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, these golden-brown balls are often served in a warm pita, accompanied by fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
The combination of textures and flavors makes falafel a satisfying and nutritious choice for anyone seeking a vegetarian option. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a filling meal, falafel is a versatile dish that appeals to a wide audience.
7. Gyro
The gyro is a staple in Greek cuisine, offering a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures. Typically made with slices of roasted lamb or beef, this delectable dish is served in a warm pita and topped with fresh tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of tangy tzatziki sauce.
The gyro is a perfect example of Greek culinary tradition, showcasing the use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s a popular street food that provides a hearty meal on the go, often enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
8. Arepa
A mainstay of Venezuelan cooking, arepas are renowned for their flavor and adaptability. Made from ground maize dough, these round and golden corn cakes are split open and filled with an assortment of ingredients like shredded chicken, avocado, and cheese.
The beauty of arepas lies in their ability to adapt to various fillings, making them suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Their warm and comforting texture, combined with the rich flavors of the fillings, make arepas a beloved hand-held food.
9. Burrito
They are a classic Mexican dish, celebrated for their hearty and flavorful composition. A large flour tortilla is tightly wrapped around a variety of ingredients such as seasoned beef, beans, rice, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal in a portable package.
The burrito’s origins trace back to Northern Mexico, but its popularity has spread across the globe, becoming a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine. Burritos provide countless customizing options, no matter if they are enjoyed for dinner or as a quick lunch.
10. Cornish Pasty
The Cornish pasty is a traditional British hand-held pie, known for its flaky, golden pastry and savory filling. Originating from Cornwall, this iconic dish typically contains a mixture of tender beef, potatoes, and onions, offering a hearty and satisfying meal.
The pasty’s unique shape, resembling a half-moon, makes it easy to carry and enjoy on the go. Its rich and comforting flavors have made it a beloved snack across the UK, often enjoyed at picnics or as a quick lunch.
11. Baozi
Steamed buns, also known as Baozi, are a cherished part of Chinese cuisine, offering a delightful combination of soft dough and flavorful filling. These pillowy buns are usually filled with savory ingredients like pork, vegetables, and spices, creating a satisfying bite-sized meal.
Often enjoyed as a breakfast item or a snack, baozi can be found in dim sum restaurants and street food stalls across China. Their tender texture and rich flavors make them a comforting choice for any time of the day.
12. Kati Roll
The kati roll is a popular street food from India, known for its flavorful fillings and convenient packaging. Typically wrapped in a paratha flatbread, the roll is filled with ingredients like chicken tikka, onions, and spicy chutney, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Originating from Kolkata, the kati roll has gained popularity across India and beyond, becoming a favorite among food enthusiasts. Its portability and rich taste make it an ideal snack for those on the go.
13. Pupusa
A classic Salvadoran meal, pupusas are praised for their cozy, cheesy goodness. These thick corn tortillas are filled with a variety of ingredients like gooey cheese, refried beans, and seasoned pork, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
Often served with a side of tangy cabbage slaw, pupusas offer a unique combination of flavors and textures that appeal to both locals and visitors. They’re a staple in Salvadoran cuisine, enjoyed as a breakfast item or a hearty snack.
14. Gözleme
Gözleme is a traditional Turkish flatbread, known for its thin, hand-rolled dough and savory fillings. Typically filled with ingredients like spinach, feta cheese, and minced meat, gözleme is cooked on a griddle, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior.
This delightful dish is a staple at Turkish markets and festivals, offering a taste of authentic Turkish flavors. The combination of fresh ingredients and expert preparation makes gözleme a beloved snack among locals and tourists alike.
15. Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps
A tasty and novel spin on Korean food is provided by bulgogi lettuce wraps. These light and filling wraps are made with marinated beef that has been finely sliced and served in crisp lettuce leaves. A delicious contrast of flavors and sensations is created by the mix of hot kimchi, crunchy lettuce, and savory beef.
These wraps are a popular choice for those seeking a healthy and delicious option, often enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. Bulgogi lettuce wraps are a must-try for anyone interested in Korean cuisine, whether they are trying them at home or a Korean BBQ restaurant.
16. Kebab
Kebabs are a versatile and flavorful dish, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine and beyond. Made with skewered and grilled meats like lamb, chicken, or beef, kebabs are often served in a pita with fresh vegetables and sauce, offering a satisfying meal in a convenient package.
The art of grilling and seasoning the meat is central to the kebab’s appeal, resulting in a delicious and aromatic dish. Whether enjoyed at a street food stall or a fine dining restaurant, kebabs are a favorite for those seeking bold flavors and a hearty meal.
17. Tamale
A classic Mexican delicacy, tamales are prized for their hearty flavors and cozy texture. Tamales are made from corn masa dough and are usually loaded with cheese, pork, or spicy chicken. They are then wrapped in corn husks and steam-cooked.
The process of making tamales is often a communal activity, with families and friends gathering to prepare these delicious treats. Their portability and satisfying taste make tamales a popular choice for festivals and celebrations.
18. Jamaican Patty
Jamaican patties are a spicy and flavorful hand-held treat, celebrated for their golden, flaky pastry and savory filling. Typically filled with ingredients like seasoned beef, chicken, or vegetables, these patties offer a burst of Caribbean flavors in every bite.
Their lively color and spicy kick make them a popular snack among locals and tourists alike. Often enjoyed as a quick lunch or a tasty snack, Jamaican patties are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the Caribbean.
19. Onigiri
Onigiri, or rice balls, are a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for their simplicity and versatility. Made from perfectly shaped rice, onigiri are wrapped in nori seaweed and filled with a variety of ingredients like savory salmon, pickled plum, or tuna.
These hand-held delights are a popular choice for bento boxes and a convenient snack for those on the go. The combination of soft rice and flavorful fillings makes onigiri a satisfying choice for any time of the day.
20. Churros
Churros, the beloved Spanish treat, offer a crunchy, sugary escape into the flavors of Spain. These golden-brown sticks of sweet joy are often enjoyed during festivities or as a comforting street snack.
Each churro is coated in sugar, making it an irresistible treat for those with a sweet tooth. Often paired with a steaming cup of thick chocolate sauce, churros are perfect for dipping.