Go early, walk around the whole area before shopping, and see what everyone is carrying home. Ask about the vendor or stall owner up close.
Lead the way with one ingredient
Choose an unfamiliar fruit, spices, pasta, or deli and ask the hotel or locals how they usually eat it. A small detail can open up an entire meal.
Pay attention to food handling
Maintain common knowledge about temperature and hygiene, especially for raw or ready-to-eat foods. Prioritize stalls with clear turnover and stable customer flow.