In the ever-evolving world of food, some of the most innovative and satisfying dining experiences are happening at grab-and-go establishments. These places aren’t just about convenience; they’re about quality, creativity, and offering a taste of local culture in a way that’s accessible to everyone. Whether it’s a croissant in Los Angeles or a Wagyu sandwich in Tokyo, these destinations show that quick-service food can be both delicious and memorable. Join us on a journey through some of the best grab-and-go spots around the world, each offering something unique and inspiring.
Supermoon Bakehouse – New York City, USA
In New York City’s vibrant Lower East Side, Supermoon Bakehouse has made a name for itself with its imaginative and visually striking pastries. The bakery’s “Cruffins” – a delightful mix of croissant and muffin – are filled with intriguing flavours such as yuzu curd and raspberry cheesecake. These pastries are more than just a quick bite; they’re an experience that reflects the latest trends in both taste and presentation. Supermoon Bakehouse captures the essence of how traditional pastries can be reinvented to capture modern palates.
Sarge’s Delicatessen – New York City, USA
A cornerstone of New York’s deli culture, Sarge’s Delicatessen offers an iconic grab-and-go experience with its oversized sandwiches. The “Monster” sandwich, stacked high with corned beef, pastrami, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, is a hearty reminder of why the classic deli remains a beloved institution in New York. It’s a perfect example of how traditional fare can be presented in a way that’s both comforting and contemporary, making it a go-to option for anyone looking for a substantial and satisfying meal on the run.
Ugly Dumpling – London, UK
With branches in Fitzrovia, Soho and Brixton, Ugly Dumpling is a fusion eatery that takes the humble dumpling to new heights. Combining Asian street food with Western flavours, this spot offers a wide variety of creative dumplings that are perfect for a quick grab-and-go meal. Favourites include the cheeseburger dumpling and the Thai green curry dumpling, each packed with flavour and designed for those who want something unique and satisfying on the go. Ugly Dumpling is a prime example of how traditional foods can be reinvented to appeal to modern, adventurous palates.
Bread Ahead London, UK
With its flagship location at Borough Market and several standalone stores across London, Bread Ahead has established itself as a go-to destination for artisanal baked goods. Renowned for their legendary doughnuts, which are filled with rich flavors like vanilla custard and raspberry jam, Bread Ahead offers the perfect grab-and-go treat for those exploring the city. Beyond doughnuts, they also bake an array of breads and pastries, all crafted with the same commitment to quality. Whether you’re visiting the bustling HQ at Borough Market or one of their other locations, Bread Ahead delivers some of London’s best baked goods, making it a must-visit for anyone on the move.
Brigat – Paris, France
In the heart of the Marais district, Brigat is a chic, minimalist bakery founded by Italian brothers Lucio and Thomas Colombo. Drawing on their experience from some of Europe’s top bakeries, they bring a refined touch to Paris’s grab-and-go scene. The bakery is known for its buckwheat polenta bread and exquisite gâteau of meringue, strawberries, and chamomile cream. However, their levain brioche truly stands out, especially the citrus-scented, vanilla-glazed version and the brioche feuilleté framboise, with its crunchy cap and rich raspberry filling. Brigat offers a taste of Italian elegance in every bite, perfect for those seeking artisanal quality on the go.
Utopie– Paris, France
Located in the 11th arrondissement, Utopie is a pint-sized bakery that has quickly earned a stellar reputation, thanks to the talents of head baker Xavier Netry. Raised in a Paris suburb by his Guadeloupean mother, Netry’s journey from school dropout to one of France’s most prominent Black bakers is inspiring. He recently won the prestigious Paris baguette competition, and now his golden baguette de tradition, leavened with sourdough starter, is so sought after that it’s even supplied to the Élysée Palace. Utopie’s offerings extend beyond bread, with innovative pastries created by co-owners Erwan Blanche and Sébastien Bruno, both veterans of Maison Ladurée. Standouts include the sesame-lime composition, a bold combination of black sesame mousse and lime confit on a sable base. Utopie is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience award-winning craftsmanship and inventive flavours on the go.
Kogi BBQ – Los Angeles, USA
Roy Choi, the pioneer of the modern food truck movement, has become a culinary icon in Los Angeles with his Kogi BBQ tacos. These tacos, which blend Korean and Mexican flavours, revolutionised street food when Choi first hit the streets with his Kogi truck in 2008. The signature Kogi taco features marinated Korean BBQ short ribs (galbi), topped with a vibrant mix of salsa roja, cilantro-lime relish, and a dash of chili-soy slaw, all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours that keep Angelenos coming back for more. Whether from one of his famous food trucks or at his brick-and-mortar locations, Roy Choi’s tacos are a quintessential grab-and-go experience that showcases the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles.
Petit Grain – Los Angeles, USA
Los Angeles has seen a surge in artisan bakeries, and Petit Grain in Santa Monica stands out as a top contender. This French-inspired bakery is celebrated for its croissants, particularly the “Almond Croissant,” which is filled with rich almond cream and topped with toasted almonds. Flaky, buttery, and decadent, these croissants have become a staple for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re grabbing one to enjoy on the beach or need a quick breakfast before heading into the city, Petit Grain’s offerings are sure to impress.
Grab & Go with A2D’s Business Innovation Program
Exploring these grab-and-go eateries across the globe reveals that convenience doesn’t have to compromise quality. Each of these establishments exemplifies the creativity and craftsmanship that can be found in quick-service food, offering inspiration for new culinary ideas and experiences. From the innovative pastries of Paris to the iconic street food of Los Angeles, these destinations showcase the diverse possibilities within the grab-and-go market.
By immersing yourself in these global food trends, you can spark fresh ideas and uncover new opportunities that lead to culinary innovation and business growth. A2D’s Business Innovation Travel program is designed to provide tailored experiences that help you explore these dynamic culinary scenes firsthand. Whether you’re looking to introduce new products, refine your menu, or simply stay ahead of the latest trends, A2D can guide you on a journey that brings the future of grab-and-go dining into your own business. Let these experiences inspire your next great venture.
