Whether you’re used to the tropical heat or not, one thing’s for sure: you’re going to need some refreshment on your journey through the Land of Smiles! And what better way to cool down than with some of Thailand’s most beloved drinks? Here are 7 popular Thai drinks you absolutely have to try while you’re here!
A quick note: This list is all about non-alcoholic Thai drinks because both my hubby and I don’t drink alcohol. So, if you’re looking for refreshing, booze-free options, you’re in the right place!
Thai tea (cha yen)
Thai tea definitely deserves the top spot on this list—ask any Thai local or tourist, and they’ll tell you this one is a must-try. It’s creamy, sweet, and has a gorgeous, bright orange color that’s hard to resist.
Cha yen is usually prepared with a mix of crushed ice, sweetened condensed milk, and a splash of evaporated milk, and you get to choose exactly how sweet you want it. It’s always perfect for beating the heat in Thailand!
Roselle juice
Roselle drink is one of my favorites on a hot summer day! Made from bright red roselle flowers, it has a perfect balance of cranberry-like tartness and sweetness that’s incredibly refreshing when served ice-cold. You can sometimes find it at noodle shops, but it’s so easy to make at home too.
The best part? It’s not just delicious—it’s also loaded with health benefits, so you can enjoy every sip guilt-free!
Cha manao (Thai lime iced tea)
Try Thai lime iced tea for an experience you’ll crave again! With a tangy kick from fresh lime and just the right hint of sweetness, this thirst-quencher will give you a nice burst of energy.
You’ll find cha manao at most local Thai markets, right alongside the classic Thai tea. So, when you spot a vendor with a jug of Thai tea, make sure to ask for a cup of this—it’s totally worth it!
Nom yen (Thai pink milk drink)
Nom yen is the favorite refreshing drink of Thai kids and a guilty pleasure for many grown-ups who grew up sipping on this bright pink delight! Made with sala syrup (a popular syrup in Thailand) it’s rich, sweet, and creamy with hints of strawberry.
I love mine mixed with both evaporated and condensed milk for an extra-creamy flavor that’s just impossible to resist. It’s the perfect way to cool down while feeling a bit nostalgic for those carefree childhood days!
Bubble tea
Bubble tea is a local favorite in Thailand, with so many fun flavors to explore! From the classic milk tea with chewy tapioca pearls to unique options like coffee or fruity blends, there’s always something new to try.
If you love fruits like me, make sure to try mango bubble tea—it’s sweet, refreshing, and full of bouncy pearls that make every sip a joy.
Butterfly pea milk tea
Butterfly pea milk tea, or blue milk tea, is a drink that’s as tasty as it is eye-catching! It gets its blue color from the butterfly pea flower, which adds a unique, subtle floral taste. The milk makes it wonderfully creamy, and with a squeeze of lime, it magically shifts to a lovely purple hue.
Fruit shakes
A fruit shake is one of my absolute go-to drinks from street vendors in Bangkok and beyond. Made fresh to order, these shakes come in many varieties with ripe fruits like pineapple, watermelon, and passionfruit.
My personal favorite is a mango shake—sweet, thick, and filled with the flavor of ripe mangoes—it’s the perfect way to cool down and treat yourself after exploring the food markets!
Conclusion
Whether you like sweet, tangy, or something healthy, there’s always something unique to order. What’s your favorite popular Thai drink to have while visiting Thailand? Don’t forget to leave a comment below! Follow me on social media for more delicious content: Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
