Tacos al pastor are widely considered the must-try Mexican dish.
Image: AI Gemini
For South Africans heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the journey is about more than just soccer.
Yes, there are matches to watch, but there’s also a continent’s worth of food to explore, from the streets of Mexico to stadiums in the United States and cities across Canada.
This isn’t your typical tournament. With three host countries, every stop offers something completely different on the plate.
And while there will be no shortage of options, a few dishes stand out above the rest, not just for their flavour, but for what they represent.
If you only eat three things across the tournament, make it these.
In Mexico, food is part of everyday life, and nowhere is that more evident than at a busy taco stand. Tacos al pastor are widely considered the must-try dish.
Marinated pork is slow-cooked on a vertical spit, shaved off in thin slices and served on soft corn tortillas.
The addition of pineapple cuts through the richness, while onion, coriander and a squeeze of lime bring everything together. It’s bold, slightly smoky and packed with flavour.
But it’s not just about the taste. It’s about how you eat it; standing on a pavement, surrounded by locals, often late at night, with music and conversation in the background. It’s fast, affordable and unforgettable.
Tacos al pastor are widely considered the must-try Mexican dish.
Image: Joshua Soliz / Unsplash
Cross into the United States, and the food culture shifts into something bigger, louder and more indulgent. Here, the classic cheeseburger is more than just a meal; it’s part of the match-day ritual.
From packed stadiums to buzzing fan parks, food and sport are deeply connected.
The tradition of tailgating, where fans gather before games to grill, eat and socialise, sets the tone. And right at the centre of it all is the burger.
Juicy, messy and loaded with toppings, it’s the kind of food you eat with your hands while soaking up the atmosphere.
Whether it’s from a street-side food truck or a sit-down spot, the experience is as important as the taste.
The classic cheeseburger is more than just a meal; it’s part of the match-day ritual.
Image: Kuiyibo Campos / Pexels
In Canada, things slow down slightly, and the food leans into comfort. That’s where poutine comes in: a dish that might sound simple, but delivers on every level.
Crisp fries are topped with cheese curds and covered in rich, savoury gravy.
The result is indulgent, filling and exactly what you want after a long day of travel or back-to-back matches.
It’s a national favourite that has grown from humble beginnings into a cultural staple, now found everywhere from casual diners to more modern food spots.
And while there are plenty of variations, the classic version remains the one to try first.
Poutine is crisp fries topped with cheese curds and covered in savoury gravy.
Image: Freepik