The food industry is evolving rapidly, and some of the most exciting innovations are coming from Asia and the Middle East. From Mediterranean street food to halal fast food and next-level dumplings, these eight food trends are reshaping the way people eat.
Miznon: The Ultimate Pita Experience is Going Global
📍 Global (Barcelona, Tel Aviv, NYC, Paris, Melbourne, Dubai, etc.)
Israeli chef Eyal Shani’s Miznon is revolutionising Mediterranean street food with high-quality, ingredient-focused pita creations. Famous for its whole roasted cauliflower and bold, stuffed pitas, Miznon has captured food lovers worldwide with its fresh, seasonal ingredients and interactive dining experience. Whether in New York, Paris, or Dubai, Miznon brings a new level of excitement to Middle Eastern flavours.
King of Falafel: NYC’s Legendary Street Food Arrives in Chicago
📍 New York → Chicago Ridge
New York’s King of Falafel & Shawarma, run by Fares “Freddy” Zeideia, is bringing authentic Palestinian street food to the Midwest. Known for its crispy falafel, juicy shawarma, and bold flavours, the brand is launching a drive-thru-only concept in Chicago Ridge, catering to on-the-go diners craving high-quality Middle Eastern food. The expansion is a major win for fans of authentic halal street eats.
Urban Skillet: The Halal Burger Boom in America
📍 Minnesota, California, Texas (Expanding Fast!)
As demand for halal fast food surges, Urban Skillet is leading the charge with its juicy, 100% halal burgers. The Truffle Banger burger, loaded fries, and wings have made the brand a social media sensation, attracting both Muslim and non-Muslim diners. With new locations opening rapidly, Urban Skillet is proving that halal food is mainstream, offering a gourmet fast-food experience that rivals Five Guys and Shake Shack.
Chai Pani: Reinventing Indian Street Food in America
📍 Asheville, NC & Decatur, GA
James Beard Award-winning Chai Pani is making Indian street food a must-try culinary experience in the U.S. Dishes like chaat, vada pav, and traditional thalis bring bold Indian flavors to a wider audience, moving beyond the usual curry-and-naan offerings. Chef Meherwan Irani’s modern take on Indian comfort food is putting chaat and home-cooked meals at the center of the conversation.
Spice Brothers: NYC’s Next-Level Shawarma Experience
📍 New York City
NYC’s Spice Brothers, created by spice expert Lior Lev Sercarz, is elevating shawarma with intense, complex flavors. The Shawarma East (beef & lamb) and Shawarma West (turmeric-marinated chicken) showcase bold spice blends, while the house-made harissa and tahina redefine traditional Middle Eastern condiments. This isn’t just street food—it’s a masterclass in spice-infused cooking, making shawarma a must-have in NYC’s competitive food scene.
London’s Dumpling Renaissance: The Rise of Gourmet Dumplings
📍 London, UK
London is at the forefront of a dumpling revolution, with restaurants pushing dim sum beyond its Chinatown roots. Dumpling Shack’s crispy shengjianbao, BaoziInn’s vibrant, Instagram-ready dumplings, and Ugly Dumpling’s fusion creations (cheeseburger dumplings, Nutella-filled bao) are attracting a new wave of dumpling lovers. The trend is proving that dumplings aren’t just a side dish—they’re a global obsession.
Finjan: The Best Pita in Europe?
📍 Antwerp, Belgium
Finjan is a Mediterranean gem in Antwerp, celebrated for its authentic Middle Eastern pita dishes. Known for its freshly grilled meats, creamy hummus, and fluffy pita bread, it has become a local favourite and a contender for the best pita spot in Europe. Whether you’re craving juicy shawarma, crisp falafel, or rich tahini flavours, Finjan delivers high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation in every bite.
The Future of Cantonese Cuisine: Tradition Meets Innovation
📍 New York, Toronto, Copenhagen, Hong Kong
A new wave of chefs is redefining Cantonese cuisine, moving beyond takeout classics to create sophisticated, ingredient-driven dishes. Cha Cha Tang (NYC) modernises Hong Kong diner fare, while Yan Dining Room (Toronto) blends traditional techniques with new flavours. Meanwhile, The Chairman (Hong Kong) stays rooted in tradition, sourcing the best local ingredients to deliver pure, authentic Cantonese flavors.
From halal smash burgers to gourmet dumplings and reinvented shawarma, these food trends are shaping the future of global cuisine. Consumers today demand authenticity, bold flavours, and creative fusions, and these food innovators are leading the way. Whether you’re looking for the next big food trend or simply want to explore the best street food and fine dining concepts, these Asia and Middle East-inspired innovations are setting the standard for what’s next.
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Stig Egard
Founder & CEO
Martin Myhre
Chief Operating Officer
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+47 970 674 23
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Antwerp
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Oslo
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