A Guide to 7 Best Trinidads Street Food: Doubles, Roti & More

Trinidad and Tobago is a paradise for food lovers, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant street food culture. Trinidads Street Food is Influenced by African, Indian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, and Creole flavors, the island’s street food scene is a melting pot of delicious flavors, spices, and textures. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, tasting Trinidads street food is an essential part of experiencing the island’s culture.

From the iconic doubles and hearty roti to flavorful corn soup and indulgent bake and shark, here’s your ultimate guide to the best street foods in Trinidad.

1. Doubles: Trinidad’s Most Beloved Street Food

What is Doubles?

Doubles is the undisputed king of Trinidads street food. This popular breakfast item consists of two soft, fried barra (flatbread) filled with curried channa (chickpeas) and topped with a variety of chutneys and sauces. It’s messy, spicy, and utterly delicious.

Where to Find the Best Doubles

Doubles vendors, known as “doubles men,” can be found all over the island, especially in cities like Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Chaguanas. Some of the most famous spots include:

Sauce Doubles (Port of Spain) – A local favorite known for its rich channa and perfect balance of spice.

Ali’s Doubles (San Fernando) – One of the oldest and most famous vendors in South Trinidad.

Randy’s Doubles (Curepe) – A hotspot for late-night doubles.

How to Eat Doubles

Doubles is best enjoyed with your hands! Ask for extra pepper (if you can handle the heat) and try different toppings like cucumber chutney, tamarind sauce, or kuchela (spicy mango relish).

2. Roti: The Ultimate Comfort Food

What is Roti?

Roti is another staple of Trinidads street food scene, brought to the island by Indian indentured laborers. It consists of a soft, flaky flatbread that is filled with a variety of curries. The most popular types include:

Buss-up-Shut (Paratha Roti) – A torn, buttery roti served with curried meats or vegetables.

Dhalpuri Roti – A thin, stuffed roti filled with seasoned ground split peas, often wrapped around curry.

Best Fillings for Roti

Curried Goat – Tender and flavorful, this is a local favorite.

Curried Chicken – A classic option, rich in spices.

Curried Shrimp – A slightly more expensive but incredibly delicious choice.

Pumpkin and Bhaji (Spinach) – A great vegetarian option.

Where to Find the Best Roti

Dianne’s Roti Shop (Port of Spain) – Known for its soft, flavorful dhalpuri.

Patraj Roti Shop (Curepe) – A favorite for their authentic buss-up-shut.

The Roti Cafe (Chaguanas) – Popular for their perfectly seasoned curry fillings.

3. Bake and Shark: A Must-Try Beach Food

What is Bake and Shark?

Bake and Shark is one of Trinidad’s most famous beachside eats. It features crispy fried shark served in a fried dough “bake”, topped with a variety of sauces and vegetables.

Where to Find the Best Bake and Shark

The best place to enjoy Bake and Shark is at Maracas Beach, where vendors like:

Richard’s Bake & Shark – One of the most famous spots on the island.

Uncle Sam’s Bake & Shark – Another great option for fresh, flavorful sandwiches.

Toppings to Try

Bake and Shark is all about the toppings! Load up your sandwich with:

Garlic sauce

Tamarind sauce

Pepper sauce

Pineapple slices

Coleslaw

Lettuce and tomatoes

4. Corn Soup: A Late-Night Favorite

What is Corn Soup?

Corn soup is a warm, flavorful dish made with split peas, fresh corn, dumplings, and seasonings. It’s a popular late-night snack, especially after a night of partying.

Where to Find the Best Corn Soup

Ariapita Avenue (Port of Spain) – A street food hotspot with several corn soup vendors.

Queen’s Park Savannah – Home to numerous food stalls selling this comforting dish.

5. Pholourie: The Perfect Snack

What is Pholourie?

Pholourie consists of fried, spiced dough balls made from split pea flour and served with tamarind chutney. It’s a simple but addictive snack, commonly found at street food stands.

Where to Find the Best Pholourie

Debbie’s Pholourie (Chaguanas) – Famous for its perfectly seasoned, crispy bites.

Street vendors in St. James and Curepe – Popular for quick, affordable snacks.

6. Souse: A Refreshing, Tangy Dish

What is Souse?

Souse is a vinegary, spicy dish made with pickled pig’s feet, chicken feet, or cow heel, served cold with cucumbers, lime juice, and peppers. It’s a great hangover cure!

Where to Find the Best Souse

The Cross (Arima) – A hotspot for local souse lovers.

Queen’s Park Savannah (Port of Spain) – Many vendors serve delicious, well-seasoned souse. Trinidads Street Food

7. Aloo Pie & Saheena: Hidden Gems

Aloo Pie – A fried pastry stuffed with seasoned mashed potatoes, often served with chutney or curried channa.

Saheena – A savory snack made from dasheen leaves, split peas, and spices, fried to perfection.

These snacks are available at local markets, roadside stalls, and doubles vendors. Trinidads Street Food

Tips for Enjoying Trinidads Street Food

Go Early – Some vendors sell out quickly, especially doubles vendors.

Bring Cash – Most street food vendors don’t accept cards.

Try Different Pepper Levels – If you’re not used to spicy food, start mild!

Embrace the Mess – Many of these foods are meant to be eaten with your hands.

Final Thoughts: Trinidads Street Food

Trinidads street food is an explosion of flavor, combining the island’s rich cultural influences into every bite. Whether you’re craving the soft, spicy goodness of doubles, the hearty satisfaction of a roti, or the beachside indulgence of bake and shark, there’s something for everyone. So next time you’re in Trinidad, skip the fancy restaurants and head straight to the streets—you won’t regret it!

Have you tried any of these street foods? Let us know your favorites!