8 Dishes, 8 Countries: Southeast Asian Delicacies You Must Try

With its rich culture, historic sites, and incredible low prices Southeast Asia is one region definitely worth exploring. Even better is the delicious food you’ll find in each country. Be sure to try out these native delicacies that are sure to satisfy the foodie in you!

Vietnam: Pho

Southeast Asian Delicacies: Vietnam’s Pho

Vietnamese cuisine prides itself in its freshness, with each dish flavoured with ingredients and herbs picked just hours earlier from the market. Their street food is no exception, especially with their famous Pho (READ: 5 Native Delicacies to Try on Your First Trip to Vietnam). The rice noodle dish, served with chicken or beef broth, herb sprigs, and a scoop of chili paste, can be found on virtually any street of the country. Depending on whether you’re in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, your pho can differ in noodle width, broth sweetness, and choice of herbs.
Book: Food Tours in Vietnam

Cambodia: Amok

Southeast Asian Delicacies: Cambodia’s Amok

This popular dish is Cambodia’s take on curry. The specialty is made with fish (or trei) that’s cooked in banana leaves, sweetened with coconut milk, and sweetened with coconut milk, and heavily seasoned with kroweng spices. It’s then typically served with rice and chilli sauce.
Book: Khmer Cooking Class with KKday!

Thailand: Thai Curry, Pad Thai

Southeast Asian Food: Thialand’s Pad Thai

With the country’s name appended to the dish, it’s no surprise that Pad Thai is the national delicacy. And a heaping plate of this popular dish goes for less than a dollar in the streets of Thailand. Pad Thai is made with flat rice noodles stir-fried with egg and meat or shrimp, with tamarind paste and fish sauce. Often topped with peanuts and lime juice, the dish is bursting in flavour and texture and highly addictive even among the locals.
Book: Khum Khantoke Thai Lanna Dinner and Culture Show

Philippines: Sinigang

Southeast Asian Food: Philippines’ Sinigang (Flickr/Ron Dollete)

If you find yourself getting rained on during your trip to the Philippines, order a piping hot bowl of sinigang. The sour stew dish is made with meat and vegetables, and is stewed in tamarinds and tomatoes for its distinct sour flavour. Like most Southeast Asian dishes, there are variations of sinigang across the country and is a staple dish in every Filipino home.
Book: Day Tours in the Philippines

 

Indonesia: Nasi Goreng

Southeast Asian Food: Indonesia’s Nasi Goreng

With over 17,000 islands, it’s difficult to pinpoint a national dish for Indonesia. Nasi Goreng, a take on fried rice, has variations across the country but consistently uses egg, chives, and shredded meat. But all households across the country use the same kind of rise: leftovers, from the night before.
Book: A Paon Bali Cooking Class: The Traditional Cuisine Experience

Singapore: Laksa

Southeast Asian Food: Singapore’s Laksa

Try this rich seafood-noodle soup on your next trip to Singapore, and choose from either of its popular variations: asam laksa and curry laksa. For sweet yet spicy, try the curry laksa which uses sweet coconut milk for its base. For more bite, try the asam laksa, which instead uses a sour tamarind paste. Both are filling and seasoned with lemongrass and lime juice for a flavourful kick.
Book: Tours and Tickets in Singapore!

Malaysia: Nasi Lemak

Southeast Asian Food: Malaysia’s Nasi Lemak

Malaysia’s national dish is on the sinful side, literally translating to ‘fatty rice.’ The name stems from its cooking process, where the rice is soaked in coconut cream before being steamed, and then served with fried chicken, egg, and a spicy Malay sauce. Messy, fragrant, and served on a large banana leaf, nasi lemak is often eaten for breakfast.
Book: Food Tours in Malaysia with KKday!

Burma: Mohinga

Southeast Asian Food: Burma’s Mohinga (Flickr/Gary Stevens)

Start your adventure in Burma with a piping hot bowl of mohinga, the way all the Burmese do. Made with catfish stock and rice noodles, and topped with deep fried fritters and hard-boiled eggs, the dish is wonderfully filling—and cheap. From the common market vendor to the President himself, there is no other way to greet the working day.

 

 

Conquering Taiwan in 6 Days 5 Nights

The KKday team has heard your cries and we’ve came up with a simple guide to the best parts of Taiwan. Get your tummies and feet ready for a delectable food trip and a killer shopping spree!

Day 1

On the first day, explore the sights and sounds of Taipei. Do not miss out the iconic sights such as Chiang Kai Shek Memorial and Taipei 101. Also, do not forget to indulge yourself with delicious Taiwanese food like the Beef Noodles and Mango Shaved Ice.

Book Now:

Zhong Shan Famous Beef Noodles

Taipei 101 Observation Ticket

Taipei 101 Observation With MangoChaCha Shaved Ice Combo Ticket

Day 2

Start your day with some famous Yong He Dou Jiang, very similar to Singapore’s You Tiao (fried dough fritters). Afterwards, drop by Yang Ming Shan to see the blooming flowers and breathe in some fresh air. (If you visit around March, you’ll get to see cherry blossoms) End your day at Shilin night market and stuff yourself with some 超大鸡排 from HotStar (XL Chicken Cutlet).

Book Now:

Yang Ming Shan National Park & Beitou Hot Springs

Day 3

Get out of the city and journey to Hualien. Here, you can visit the famous Taroko Gorge before heading down to Hehuashan. Another option is to take a full day tour of Hualien and Taroko Gorge to cover most of the scenic spots in this region of Taiwan. Afterwards, head to Taichung to eat local food and rest before day 4 adventures.

Book Now:

Hualien Car Rental 

Chartered Tour of Hualien & Taroko Gorge

Day 4

Taiwan is the land of bubble tea. Needless to say, this is the best place in the world to learn how to make this famous drink. You can easily have that experience in Taichung before visiting the Sea of Flowers and Gaomei Wetlands.

Afterwards, pack your bags and head back to the bustling capital.

Book Now: 

Visit the Sea of Flowers

Go for the ChunShuiTang Bubble Tea DIY session

Half Day Tour from Taichung: Gaomei Wetlands and Rainbow Village

Taiwan High Speed Rail Discount Ticket from Taichung

Day 5

A trip to Taiwan is never complete without visiting Northern Taiwan’s famous attractions such as Jiufen, Yehliu and Shifen. These are the most photographed places in all of Taiwan so this is a must-see for travelers. Afterwards, visit Shida night market to have one last food trip before leaving the heart of Asia.

Book Now:  

Day Tour from Taipei: Jiufen, Yehliu and Shifen 

 

Day 6

You can’t leave Taiwan without the famed pineapple cakes. This is pretty much available in any market or district. Lastly, you can also get a massage to recover from all the eating, shopping and walking.

Book Now:

Kuo Yuan Ye Pastry Museum & Pineapple Cake Making Experience

Massage and Wellness in Taipei

If you want to find more stuff to do in Taiwan, click here to browse our range of experiences.

Food Trip in Japan: Feel Full With Just 800 Yen (S$10)

Food, especially the local cuisine, is a huge part of the travel experience. And in a country like Japan where the food is so well-loved here at home, you’ll want it to be as authentic as it can get. We’ve written a lot about Japan food: from the best Japanese restaurants, to the their strangely themed cafes. And while Japanese Japanese street food is also great, here are a few other options when you’re on a budget.

Convenience Store Bento Boxes

Japan Food: Bento Box from Family Mart

For the penny-pinching traveler, convenience store take-out is usually a sad attempts at a decent meal. But in Japan, convenience stores have anything and everything—including really, really good food. The generic Donburi (rice bowls) come in different styles to choose from: there’s gyudon (marinated beef strips), katsudon (deep-fried pork and scrambled eggs), and oyakodon (chicken and scrambled eggs). Not just that; You can find all sorts of snacks and quick bites here as well!

Average price: 400 to 600 yen.
Try: Natural Lawson Donburi, which is a healthier variety.

Gyudon Chains

Japan Food: Gyudon from Yashinoya

If you’re looking for a cheap but filling meal in Japan, look no further than any of the major Gyudon stores. At its most basic, you get a rice bowl topped with minced beef and onions drizzled in soy sauce with a bowl of miso soup. But for a couple more yen, you can add a soft-boiled egg, extra onions, and natto. Even better than the price? Most Gyudon stores are open 24/7!

Average Cost: 250 to 350 yen
Check Out: Yashinoya, Matsuya, Sukiya

Ramen Joints

Japan Food: Tantan-men style ramen from Nakiryu (image via Guilhem Vellut )

A favorite among Singaporeans, the ramen dish has lots of variations across Japan. Tokyo style ramen is usually served  with kamaboko, half an egg, and topped with leeks and bamboo shoots. Hakata style ramen, from the Kyushu island, is topped with chashu, scallions, sesame seeds, and pickled ginger. And then there’s Tantan-men Ramen, which is a take-off from the Chinese dandan noodles. This particular style is a specialty from the Nakiryu restaurant. Nakiryu is not only affordable, but has also garnered the prestigious Michelin star!

Average Price: 600 to 800 yen
Check Out: Nakiryu Restaurant, Kourakuen, and Hidakaya

Sushi Bars

Japan Food: Tokyo Sushi Bar

Who would’ve thought that kaiten (conveyor belt) sushi is actually the budget option? You’ll find tons household names in Tokyo. Plates often start at just 100 yen, and also have tempura, fried chicken, soups, teriyaki. For even better deals, go to these places during lunch time; prices tend to be a lot cheaper.

But if you really want to get the best sushi at the best price, head over to the Tsukiji Fish Market for the freshest fish around! We guarantee you’ll want to become a sushi master afterwards!

Average Price: 800 yen for a filling meal
Check Out: Genki Sushi, Katsu Midori, and the Tsukiji Fish Market

Of course, the food travel experience doesn’t have to stop with just eat. Take it a step further by learning how to make your own sushi, attending a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, or experiencing Washoku cuisine in a traditional kimono.

Our Top 6 Milk Tea Places in Taiwan

Many were left devastated when Gong Cha left the bubble tea scene in Singapore and got taken over by LiHo (they will be coming back into our tiny red dot soon, don’t y’all worry). However, if you still miss Gong Cha as much as the other Singaporean, head down to Taiwan, because of the copious amounts of bubble tea shops that they have you are sure to find one that you will love. Here’s a run down of some of our favorites!

Chun Shui Tang

Milk Tea in Taiwan: Chung Shui Tang (image via ayustesty)

Chun Shui Tang is the OG of milk tea, and what started the craze.
Must Try: Classic Pearl Milk Tea

Tea Patea

Milk Tea in Taiwan: Tea Patea (image via Connie)

Tea Patea is a younger milk tea brand compared to the others. The story is that Tea Patea was founded by a former apprentice of Chun Shui Tang. This brand boasts of much more affordable prices
Must Try: Tieguanyin Tea Latte

85°C Bakery Cafe

Milk Tea in Taiwan: 85°C Bakery Cafe (image via sstrieu)

85°C Bakery Cafe is often called the ‘Starbucks of Taiwan.’ And while the shop is known for serving coffee (especially their Sea Salt Coffee, which you should also try!), they have a pretty goo menu of milk tea drinks as well.
Must Try: Iced Rose Milk Tea

Presotea

Milk Tea in Taiwan: Presotea Milk Tea (image via Connie)

The name comes from the fact that Presotea uses an expresso-type machine for their drinks. They claim that their method keeps the natural freshness and flavor of the tea leaves.
Must Try: Panda Milk Tea and Royal Earl Grey Milk Tea

50 Lan

Milk Tea in Taiwan: 50 Lan (image via Rory Finneren

As many people claim, this is the KOI of Taiwan. Also just like in Singapore, you can find this bubble tea store just a stone’s throw away from where ever you are!
Must Try: Milk Tea with Pearl (Nothing beats the original here)

Night Market Milk Tea

Milk Tea in Taiwan: Shilin Market Milk Tea

But nothing really compares to the milk tea from Taiwan’s night markets. The night markets are a cultural experience all on their own, making their food and drink unique. Bonus points: the milk tea here is really cheap!

For more things to do in Taiwan, check out our other travel guides:

8 Places to Shop in Taipei
5 Best Places to View Maple Leaves in Taiwan
These 5 Dessert Cafes Will Complete Your Vacation in Taiwan!

5 Must Eats Near Studio Ghibli Museum in Tokyo

There are lots to do at the Kichijoji Station: you can play football at the Tokyo Musashino City FC, visit the Studio Ghibli Museum, or explore the shopping area. But whatever you do, you’ll work up a big appetite. Don’t miss out on these bites next time you’ve hop off the station!

1.  Satou Beef Balls さとう

Smell the sweet onion the moment you take a bite! (image via Wei-Te Wong)

You haven’t been to Kichijoji if you haven’t tried the fried beef balls! Satou is a meat poultry store that sells Matsusaka steak, beef steak, fried snacks and now beef balls. The beef balls are fried to a golden brown, and with just one bite, you’ll taste the delicious juicy stuffing and sweet onion. One beef ball cost about 200 yen, and if you buy more than 5 beef ball, it will only cost 160 yen each.

2.  Kichijoji Large Bowl どんぶり

With all sorts of beef, pork and chicken available, this is a must-try for all the meat lovers. The owner likes to challenge customers to finish an entire bowl for themselves. A large bowl usually costs 600-850 yen.

3. Kebab House いせや

Savor the juicy meat kebabs after a long day of work (Photo credit: nakashi via VisualHunt / CC BY-SA)

Let the aroma of the barbecue lure you in, and just follow the smoke and long lines. This place is a long-time favourite of many Japanese commuters who come here after work, and is often full of people. Choose from sticks of pork tongue, pork cheek meat, small tender muscles, to chicken skewers. The best part? Each stick costs just about 80 yen!

4. HARBS Melaleuca Fruit Cake

The dessert choices can vary, depending on the fruits available (Photo credit: alexxis via Visual hunt / CC BY-ND)

Many visitors describe HARBS Melaleuca cake is the only Japanese food they will eat. There are many branches in Japan and the one in Kichijoji is located in the station アトレ (atre) mall B1. A lot of fresh fruits goes into making Melaleuca cake, and is as pretty as it is delicious. They use sour cream instead of sweet cream,  giving the cake a unsually delightful flavour.

5. Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream 

Experience a unique sweet-sour dessert! (image via Erika 恵梨香 K.)

This mini-shop may not catch your eye the first time you glance around, but Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream has become a household name in Tokyo desserts. The company is known not only for its distinctly light, sweet-sour taste, but also for cooperating with local farm-based production for the fruits. The flavours may be different each day, depending on the ingredients they choose to use, so keep coming back to try them all!

Tokyo is full of food, with bountiful budget options, street food on the corners, to the famous sit-down restaurants (READ: 10 Must-try Restaurants in Japan). And for things to do, be sure to check out KKday for all sorts of things to do in Japan this holiday!

Things to do in Tokyo:

>> Tokyo Disneyland
>> Robot Cabaret Show
>> Okonomiyaki and Teppanyaki Cuisine Experience

5 Native Delicacies to Try on Your First Trip to Vietnam

Are you a big fan of Vietnamese food like we are? Prepare to let your mouth water as you read about all the delicious street food available in Vietnam!

1. Phở bò (Beef Noodles)

Photo credit: *_* via VisualHunt.com / CC BY

Singaporeans will easily recognise this Vietnamese delicacy, with the popularity of restaurants like Nam Nam. Phở typically consists of soup, beef, and noodles, but there can be differences in noodle width, broth sweetness and spices depending on whether the Phở is made in Hanoi or Saigon. Southern Vietnamese usually have Phở for breakfast, along with their famous coffee.

2. Bánh mì (Vietnamese Baguette)

Photo credit: Ruth and Dave via Visualhunt.com / CC BY

Or what you can call ‘The Vietnamese Baguqette.’ The classic version of Bánh mì normally consists of Vietnamese cold cuts, cheese, together with vegetables such as carrot or cucumbers. Some places offers a vegetarian option where its made with tofu.

The Bánh mì has many variations. There’s a vegetarian variation where it is made with tofu instead of cold cuts, which you can usually find by the Buddhist temples during special religious events. When eaten for breakfast, it typically has fried eggs and onions, with a sprinkling of soy sauce. Another popular variation is the Bánh mì kep kem, a dessert street snack commonly stuffed with scoops of ice cream, topped with crushed peanuts.

3. Ăn ốc (Seawater Snails)

Photo credit: HeyItsWilliam via Visual hunt / CC BY-ND

The name not only refers to the actual snails, but the pastime associated with it.Ăn ốc or ‘snail eating’ is an integral part of Vietnamese culture: It is typically eaten with a round of beers, as friends or colleagues gather and socialize after the work day or the weekend.

A wide seafood selection is normally displayed at the front of the food stall or restaurant, and you can choose from snail shells, cockles, clams, as well as shrimps and crabs.  After picking out your shells, you can decide to have it either grilled, sautéed, or coated in salt and chili.

4. Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls)

Photo credit: kaythaney via Visualhunt.com / CC BY

Vietnamese spring rolls are another delicacy popular among many Singaporeans. The spring rolls can be served in two ways: freshly wrapped, or deep fried. Whichever way they are served, they usually have rice noodles, vegetables, cooked pork and cooked prawn meat. Integral to the dish is the dip sauce, which is made of sweet soy sauce mixed with chopped, roasted peanuts.

5. Bánh canh (Big Noodles)

Photo credit: Prince Roy via Visualhunt / CC BY

This is another Vietnamese dish that has variations across the country. At its most basic, it’s a noodle dish. In Southern Vietnam, it’s served with pork knuckles or crab, while in Central Vietnam, it can be served with snakeheads. Sometimes the broth is a Vietnamese-style coconut soup. Whichever version you get to taste, be sure to add a bit of chili and lime!

Not sure what else to do in Vietnam? Here are some options that you can consider when traveling in Vietnam!

>> Hanoi Street Food Tour
>> 1-day trip to Perfume Pagoda
>> Mekong Delta Speedboat Tour

The Ultimate Food Guide to Hualien, Taiwan

(William Tai)

Hualien, Taiwan’s largest county, is best known for its mountainous beauty and coastal landmarks. Home to the Taroko National Park, Hualien lures tourists in with its natural attractions and scenic landscapes but that’s not all to Hualien. The charming city is teeming with culinary treasures, like a bonus food haven for every Taiwanese cuisine lover. Follow KKday as we guide you on an exciting food journey to uncover the must-eats and local delights of Hualien.

1. Lao Pai Scallion Pancake with Eggs

Lao Pai Scallion Pancakes With Eggs (William Tai)

Everyone fancies an oozy egg yolk, and that is exactly what the scallion pancakes in Hualien are about. Even though scallion pancakes are readily available in most Hualien night markets, the queue for Lao Pai scallion pancakes begins way before Lao Pai is even open for business. The scallion pancakes are crisp on the outside whilst the yolk on the inside literally explodes on bite; it’s no wonder the crowds are going gaga over it.

Location:
No. 2, Lane 110, Fuxing Street, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
1pm – 7pm

2. Gong Zheng Bao Zi

Gong Zheng Bao Zi’s Xiao Long Baos in Hualien (Sou-Yi Yang)

Amidst the bustling streets of Gong Zheng Bao Zi lies a culinary gem for the big fans of Xiao Long Baos, otherwise known as soup dumplings. Different from the typical paper thin dumpling skins, Gong Zheng Bao Zi encases a fragrant pork filling with a thicker skin, comparable to that of our usual steamed buns. Highly recommended by locals in Hualien, it is almost a crime for any foodie to miss out on Gong Zheng Bao Zi when on a holiday.

Location:
No. 199-2, Zhongshan Road, Hualien County 970, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
24/7

3. Shaved Ice Dessert

Shaved Ice Dessert in in Hualien (Dao-Hui Chen)

Practically the Taiwanese version of Patbingsu, Hualien serves refreshing shaved ice drizzled with condensed milk and caramel. Dig into the shaved ice dessert to uncover a variety of ingredients nestled beneath the layer of ice. Ranging from grass jelly bits and chewy tapioca balls, the shaved ice dessert of Hualien definitely hits the spot for all dessert fanatics.

Location:
No. 165, Bo’ai Street, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
10.30am – 10.30pm (Closed every Tuesday)

4. Miao Kou Red Tea

Miao Kou Red Tea in in Hualien (Jeff~)

Well known for its unique system of drinks preparation, Miao Kou Red Tea, also referred to as Miao Kou Steel Tea, sends its Taiwanese-styled tea down from the second level to the first via metal pipes. In addition to the drinks, Miao Kou Red Tea offers sides such as dumpling or peanut soup — perfect with a cup of hot tea on a chilly day.

Location:
No. 216, Chenggong Street, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
6am – 12.30am (Closed every Wednesday)

5. Dai Ji Bian Shi

Dai Ji Bian Shi in in Hualien (迷惘的人生)

You know something is good when it’s the sole item on the menu, and the shop owes its fame to it. Bian Shi, otherwise known as wantons or dumplings in Hualien, is a signature dish at Dai Ji Bian Shi. The dumplings at Dai Ji are a gourmet legend — nothing fancy, no gimmicks, yet tje dumplings boast meat fillings full of flavor and zest. The most unbelievable part of it all? It’s dirt cheap.

Location:
No. 120, Zhonghua Road, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
7.30am – 12.30am

6. Mei Qi Roasted Corn 

A photo posted by ABo Ho (@abo_ho) on Mar 6, 2016 at 3:32am PST

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Available only in limited quantities daily, Mei Qi Roasted Corn in Hualien is a popular street snack well-loved amongst locals. Despite its time-consuming process, the Mei Qi Roasted Corn‘s vendor insists on roasting their roasted corn in a specific manner such that every kernel basks in the essence and goodness of their house sauce during the barbecuing process.

Location: 
No. 71, Xinyi Street, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
4pm – 11pm (Or until the roasted corn is sold out)

7. Hai Pu Oyster Omelette

Hai Pu Oyster Omelette in Hualien (獅子男)

A family heirloom recipe passed down through two generations, Hai Pu Oyster Omelette is easily identifiable from its snaking queues. With fresh oysters atop a bedding of fluffy eggs, the oyster omelette from Hai Pu is a delicacy not to be missed in Hualien. If you’re deterred by the queues, don’t fret — the chefs are pretty quick with their hands, so just sit back and await for your order of the best oyster omelette in Hualien.

Location:
No. 86, Ziyou Street, Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
5.30pm – 11pm

8. Chiang’s Family Coffin Toast

A photo posted by YuanWeijing (@cyan0429) on Feb 28, 2016 at 6:34am PST

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You haven’t been to Hualien if you haven’t had Chiang’s Family signature coffin toast. A fusion of deep fried toast with an array of savory fillings to choose from, the coffin toast from Chiang’s Family is one of Hualien’s most renowned snack. Highly recommended by various Taiwanese media outlets, be sure to pop by Tze Chiang Night Market for the food experience of your lifetime.

Location:
Tze Chiang Night Market
(At the intersection of Tze Chiang Road and Heping Road),
Hualien City, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
4pm – 12.30am (Closed every Tuesday)

9. Lai Sang Sushi House

A photo posted by Guanhong (@chi791014) on Apr 5, 2016 at 3:05am PDT

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Craving for some fresh seafood in Hualien? You’re in good hands with Lai Sang Sushi House. Offering a wide selection of Japanese dishes on their menu, a true blue Hualien local will know where to go for their sashimi fix. From nigiri to maki, Lai Sang Sushi House will have any traveller hooked and coming back for seconds.

Location:
No. 90, Linsen Road, Hualien 970, Taiwan

Operating Hours:
11.30am – 2pm, 5pm – 9pm (Closed every Monday)

For more travel activities around Hualien:
>> Classic Day Tour to Taroko Gorge, Hualien
>> Meet Whales and Dolphins at Hualien
>> The Adventure of River Trekking in Hualien

For more travel food guides about Taiwan:
>> Surprise Surprise, Taiwan Isn’t Only About Oyster Omelette and Braised Pork Rice
>> 5 Hidden Breakfast and Brunch Places to Discover in Taipei
>> Visit These 5 Cafes in Taiwan to Curb Your Matcha Addiction

7 Sedap Food You Can Only Find in Bali

We hear nothing but incredible things when it comes to Bali. Beautiful beach resorts, exhilarating travel activities, and of course, every Singaporean’s passion — absolutely delicious Balinese food. Brimming with rich and tantalising flavours, the Balinese cuisine is a wonderful travel experience all by itself. Join KKday as we embark on an exciting food journey to uncover the best Balinese eats bound to have you coming back for more.

1. Bebek Betutu (Fried Duck)

Bebek Betutu in Bali (Naotake Murayama)

A classic Balinese dish, Bebek Betutu is a duck that’s deep-fried to achieve its glorious, crispy exterior. With its crackly skin and succulent flesh, Bebek Betutu definitely brought up our benchmark of a delicious duck dish.

2. Babi Guling (Suckling Pig)

An entire pig served hot from the oven (Kai Hendry)

Babi Guling, otherwise known to Singaporeans as suckling pig, is a dish not to be missed in Bali. Stuffed and marinated with a variety of spices, Babi Guling is then roasted slowly to arrive at its crisp and golden exterior.

Babi Guling in Bali (killerturnip)

Loaded with flavour and zest, Babi Guling is one of the reasons why tourists keep returning to Bali.

3. Avocado Shake

Avocado Shake in Bali (Mindy McAdams)

Your holiday to Bali is not complete without a good glass of avocado shake. Creamy yet refreshing, Bali’s avocado shake is typically topped with condensed milk and chocolate syrup, making it the perfect detox drink away from Singapore’s busy city life.

4. Seafood

 

Seafood in Bali (Marcus Södervall)

Even if you haven’t been to Bali, surely you’ve heard of their seafood. Whether you’re at Kuta or Jimbaran, the beaches have an abundance of fresh seafood guaranteed to drive all seafood lovers into a craze. With an amazing seaside scenery and generous platters of fresh seafood, what’s there not to love about Bali?

5. Sate

Sate in Bali (BernieCB)

Sate is Balinese for what Singaporeans know as satay; characterised by meat chunks skewered on sticks, sate is an extremely affordable street food in Bali, making it a popular dish amongst locals and tourists alike.

6. Murtabak

Murtabak in Bali (Franklin Heijnen)

A traditional Indonesian street snack in Bali, Murtabuk is a stuffed pancake served either with sweet or savory fillings, depending on a customer’s preference. The sweet Murtabuk is usually stuffed with banana and chocolate whilst the savory variant is cooked with meat, onions and eggs.

7. Nasi Campur

Nasi Campur in Bali (Fei Tan)

 

A popular Balinese rice dish served with small portions of varying sides, Nasi Campur is a fusion of the best Balinese flavours in one. If you’re a fickle-minded traveller who can’t seem to settle on a single dish, Nasi Campur is just the solution for you. Be sure to grab a taste of it for the most authentic food experience before you leave Bali!

For more travel activities around Bali:
>> Bali Safari & Marine Park Tickets
>> Explore Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Ubud Market
>> 1-Day Tour to Bali Ancient Temples

For more travel guides in Asia:
>> 20 Things You Must Do On Your First Trip To Seoul
>> 7 Places To Visit From Singapore For Under SGD$500
>> Top Street Food You Must Eat In Bangkok Or You Haven’t Been There!

7 Most Bizarre Food in The World You Won’t Believe Exist!

Fried locusts (Charles Haynes)

There are certain food in this world that may seem godsent for people who adore them, but most people just can’t fathom how anyone could have the stomach or guts for them. Prepare yourselves because KKday has prepared a list of the weirdest and most bizarre foods on Earth that may trigger your gag reflex.

1. Surströmming, Sweden

A can of Surströmming (Wrote)

Love sashimi? Surströmming, the uglier cousin of the beloved sashimi, is said to be the smelliest food on Earth. We’re not surprised, considering Baltic Sea Herring, a raw fish, had been fermented months before being served to patrons. Despite its rancid odour, the Swedish sees the dish as a staple food. The taste of Surströmming is said to be not as foul as it smells, but we’re not going to be the ones to verify it. Anyone willing to take one for the team?

2. Escamole, Mexico

Ants and escamoles (Lennart Tange)

Ever lodged a complaint against a restaurant for having unwanted ants in your food? Not the Mexicans! Escamoles, essentially ants larvae, are often stir-fried in butter and spices in Mexico. Brave souls who have tried Escamoles claim that the ant eggs have a light nutty taste and are crispier when fried. Escamoles can be served in tacos or omelettes as well, so don’t be startled if you find couple of ants rolled up in your tortilla the next time you’re in Mexico.

3. Balut, Philippines

Balut (Jerick Parrone)

You can’t leave Philippines before trying baluts, Philippines’ famous street snack. A half-developed bird embryo that is boiled and feasted from its very shell, a balut is surprisingly delicious once you get past your qualms about its unsavoury appearance. Balut tastes just like a typical boiled egg, but with a richer duck broth and a crunch to it, sickeningly from the bones of the baby duck.

4. Baby Mice Wine, China and Korea

Mice wine (Yun Huang Yong)

Feeling like your sex drive has been a little down lately? Try some mice wine. Rumoured to have beneficial health properties by the Chinese and Koreans, mice wine tastes a little like gasoline. Give these baby mice a chance if you’re brave enough — the cuties died to boost your sexual libido.

5. Fried Tarantulas, Cambodia

Plate of fried tarantulas (Paul Mannix)

They say the best way to overcome your fear is to face it or in this case, eat it. Fried tarantulas are considered a speciality street snack in Cambodia, and are easily available along the streets. The tarantulas are reared underground in villages and have an average growth size of up to a human palm. When fried, the tarantulas’ venomous arachnids have a crispy exterior and a soft core — doesn’t sound as intimidating as it looks, right? Shudders.

6. Beondegi, Korea

Silkworm pupae (Charles Haynes)

A popular street snack in Korea, your oppas probably grew up loving these silkworms as an afternoon snack. Beondegi, which directly translates to ‘pupa’ or ‘chrysalis’, are silkworm pupae that have been cooked and seasoned to k-perfection. How about a couple of these bad boys to experience the Korean culture your oppa was brought up in? Close your eyes if you need to, and just pretend the bugs are peanuts.

7. Durians

Durians (Zhao)

Sewage, rotting flesh, wet garbage, dead rats, and the smelliest fruit in the world are just some of the many dreadful names given to every Singaporean‘s beloved national fruit, the Durian. Durians are seen as a delicacy and the king of all fruits for those who appreciate its flavour, but for the haters, the fruit probably broke their gross scale.

Whether for boasting rights or the curiosity burning within you, if you’re travelling to the abovementioned countries, dare yourself to go for an authentic experience of the most bizarre food cultures. Who knows? You might actually love it. Bon appétit.

For more food travel tours:

>> Gourmet food tour in Central Paris
>> Hanoi Street Food Tour
>> Vientiane market and food tasting tour

For more street food travel guides:

>> 3 Types of Food To Avoid When Travelling
>> Top 7 Street Food You Must Eat In Bangkok Or You Haven’t Been There
>> 8 New Food To Discover in Taiwan’s Shida Night Market

Top 8 Food in Hong Kong Even The Locals Love

(Shutter Monkey)

Hong Kong is a kaleidoscope of all things great. Food, fashion, entertainment, culture, commerce, architecture — you name it, Hong Kong has it. Crowned as Land of Dim Sum, Hong Kong is home to the world’s best Chinese food, a couple of which are also found in Singapore — except Hong Kong does it better. Follow KKday as we take you through the classic Hong Kong food you need to get your hands on while you’re on holiday.

1. Beef Brisket Noodles

Beef Brisket Noodles in Hong Kong (jay.tong)

Springy noodles, a hearty broth, tender beef slices — a good bowl of Beef Brisket noodles is every foodie’s requisite when travelling in Hong Kong. This lip-smacking dish is perfect for any weather, but especially satisfying as Hong Kong approaches the chilly season in December.

2. Dim Sum

Dim Sum in Hong Kong (Lim Ashley)

Where have you been if you haven’t had Dim Sum in Hong Kong? Served in small steamer baskets, the Cantonese cuisine offers a diversity of dishes such as shrimp dumplings (har gao), steamed pork buns (cha siu bao), pork dumplings (siew mai), rice noodle rolls (chee cheong fun), pan-fried radish cake (law bok gow) and more.

Steam Pork Buns in Hong Kong (Geoff Peters)

Needless to say, Dim Sum is a definite must-try food in Hong Kong.

3. Egg Tarts

Egg tarts in Hong Kong (Iris)

Have we all forgotten the good ol’ days of egg tarts with all that cheese tarts craze in Singapore nowadays? Egg tarts are iconic in Hong Kong; the outer crust is crisp and buttery whilst the egg custard is soft and melts in your mouth.

Crispy crust and soft custard (zmtomako)

There are several shops in Hong Kong that specialises in egg tarts, each vying to be the best one in the city, so make sure to get your hands on at least one egg tart in Hong Kong.

4. Hong Kong Milk Tea

Hong Kong Milk Tea (Roland Tanglao)

All bubble tea lovers, Hong Kong milk tea should be on your wishlist when you’re travelling to Hong Kong. Made from black tea and condensed milk, Hong Kong milk tea is an essential for all Hong Kongers, with a whopping amount of 9 million glasses of milk tea sold in Hong Kong per year.

Milk tea in Hong Kong (tszchungwing)

It’s not an understatement to say that you should start off your Hong Kong food holiday with Hong Kong milk tea.

5. Pineapple Bun

(John Loo)

A popular, sweet bun snack in Hong Kong, the pineapple bun (Bo Lo Bun) is to die for. Despite its name, pineapple bun contains no pineapple on the inside. Instead, its name was derived from its golden crusty top, which resembles a pineapple.

The Pineapple bun in Hong Kong (Dennis Wong)

The slice of butter in the middle of the bun? It’s there to make the pineapple bun every foodie’s dream come true.

6. Curry Fishballs

Curry Fishballs in Hong Kong (Elsie Hui)

Curry fishballs are just what it is — fishballs served in curry. Don’t underestimate the popularity of Hong Kong’s curry fishball despite its simplicity. Considered one of the most well-loved street snacks of Hong Kong, the curry fishballs are easily available along the streets of Hong Kong, providing spicy food lover quite a kick.

7. Eggettes

Eggettes/Egg Waffles in Hong Kong (rick)

Also known as egg waffles, eggettes are half-hollowed and chewy to the bite. Yet another popular street snack of Hong Kong, eggettes come with a variety of fillings.

Chocolate eggettes in Hong Kong (lawtonjm)

From chocolate to cheese flavours, you may take your pick but we recommend going for the original to taste the full sweetness of the egg. Did we mention that it’s strangely addictive to pluck off the eggettes one by one?

8. Hong Kong-Style Macaroni

Macaroni in Hong Kong (huiping ho)

Westerners have their mac and cheese and Asians have our macaroni in soup. A breakfast staple for every Hong Konger, Hong Kong-style macaroni is typically served with ham and eggs. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal in Hong Kong, this simple macaroni dish is your go-to.

Looking for places that serve some of the abovementioned food?

For more Hong Kong travel guides:
>> 9 Must Go Shopping Spots in Hong Kong
>> 4 Popular Free Activities in Hong Kong for Budget Travellers
>> Guide to Classic Hong Kong Dessert

For more activities to do in Hong Kong:
>> The Sweet Dynasty Meal Set For 2 Pax
>> Hong Kong Ocean Park
>> Hong Kong Disneyland