As the UK's summer holiday season kicks off, foodies are in luck – chefs from around the world have shared their top picks for seaside snacks that every British beachgoer needs to try. From Mumbai's simple yet satisfying barbecued sweetcorn to Brazil's innovative crab and banana pastel, these local delicacies offer a unique taste of each destination.
Karan Gokani, founder of Hoppers, recommends seeking out vendors along India's Marine Drive in Mumbai, where they roast sweetcorn on charcoal stoves before finishing it with a blend of salt, chilli, and lime. This traditional method gives the dish an authentic Indian flavour that often contrasts with Westernised versions topped with butter and cheese.
Ixta Belfrage, a renowned chef and recipe developer, has a soft spot for Brazil's diverse beach eating traditions. In Rio, she enjoys grilled prawns and 'queijo coalho' cheese skewers, but her go-to destination is Salvador in the north-east, where African influences meet local cuisine to create unique dishes like 'pamonha' (a cornmeal dish similar to a tamale) and 'pastel' (fried pastries).
Marcelo Rodrigues, head chef at London's Primeur, champions Portugal's beloved 'bolas de berlim', deep-fried custard doughnuts coated in sugar. Despite the richness, these sweet treats are a beach staple, often served by vendors carrying them in glass boxes along Portuguese coastlines.
By seeking out these local specialties, UK travellers can elevate their beach holidays into unforgettable experiences. With costs generally low (typically £1-£5 per item), and a practical guide to enhance your trip – don't forget to carry local currency and consult the FCDO for up-to-date travel advice before departing.