What to Eat in Thailand

When you’re traveling and wondering what to eat in Thailand and how to order it, this article is like having a local friend by your side. Let’s make sure you never miss out on the tastiest Thai food around!

PS, If you’re already daydreaming about your next foodie trip to the land of smiles, check out these easy Thai recipes for cooking at home – no passport required!

Best things to eat in Thailand

Let’s jump right in! I’ve traveled through different regions of Thailand and listed the best dishes (with recipes) from each area for you, complete with translations and Thai script.

Eating in Bangkok (the classic Thai dishes)

Bangkok is likely the starting point of your journey, and luckily, it’s where you’ll find some of the best Thai street food you’ll ever taste!

I recommend starting with some of the classic Thai dishes here. Later, as you continue your travels, you can try some of the local specialties we’ll explore shortly.

1. Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) – Thai stir-fried noodles

One of the must-try dishes in Central Thailand is, of course, pad Thai – no trip to Central Thailand is complete without it! This stir-fried noodle dish is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that makes each bite better than the last.

2. Tom yum kung (ต้มยำกุ้ง) – spicy and sour shrimp soup

My second recommendation is tom yum, a favorite among tourists and often called Thailand’s best soup. It’s deliciously spicy and packed with herbs and spices like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.

During your trip, you must take the opportunity to experience the authentic local flavors of this soup!

3. Gaeng keow wan (แกงเขียวหวาน) – green curry

Thai green curry is a rich and creamy dish with a spicy kick that’s perfectly balanced by sweet coconut milk. It’s got a little bit of everything – heat, sweetness, and tons of flavor.

4. Som tum Thai (ส้มตำไทย) – Thai papaya salad

Som tum Thai is a favorite for both tourists and locals, and it never disappoints. This delicious papaya salad is made with shredded green papaya, chilies, lime, peanuts, and a bunch of fresh ingredients. Just be sure to let the cook know how spicy you like it!

5. Khao man gai (ข้าวมันไก่) – chicken and rice

Khao man gai is a Thai comfort food that’s incredibly simple yet surprisingly delicious. Imagine tender chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in rich chicken broth. If that sounds good to you, then you’ll love this dish!

It’s served with a tangy dipping sauce that adds just the right kick, along with a light, clear soup and crisp cucumber slices to round out the meal.

6. Pad kra pao moo sap (ผัดกะเพราหมูสับ) – stir-fried minced pork with holy basil

Pad kra pao is the go-to street food in Thailand, loved for its bold flavors and how fast it’s prepared. It’s a spicy stir-fry with minced meat, chilies, garlic, and Thai holy basil, all simmered in a savory sauce.

And trust me, you’ll want to order this dish like a local, with a crispy fried egg (kai dao) on top!

Southern Thai food

Southern Thailand is where the locals eat hot and spicy, and the beaches are as stunning as the food.

Don’t miss out on the chance to try some of the freshest seafood and spiciest dishes around. Explore all the dishes in my section on Southern Thai cuisine.

1. Gaeng som (แกงส้ม) – sour curry

Kaeng som is a Southern Thai water-based curry that’s spicy, bold, and packed with flavor. I love it with shrimp, but you can also try it with fish (kaeng som pla) for a tasty twist. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the bolder side of Thai cuisine.

2. Khua kling (คั่วกลิ้ง) – dry-fried curry

Khua kling is a spicy dry curry made with minced meat, typically pork or beef, and a fragrant blend of Southern Thai spices, offering an intense, spicy kick. Make sure to order this with a portion of steamed jasmine rice to mellow down the heat!

3. Roti (โรตีไทย) – flatbread

Popular street food in Southern Thailand, Thai roti is a pan-fried flatbread often served with sweet condensed milk or as a side with curry. For me, it’s a delicious treat that I can enjoy for breakfast, lunch, a snack, or even dinner!

Isan dishes (Northeast)

Isan dishes are known for their fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a love for spicy, healthy salads and grilled meats. The cornerstone of Isan cuisine is Thai sticky rice, which perfectly complements every dish and is almost a must with every meal!

1. Gai yang (ไก่ย่าง) – grilled chicken

Gai yang is a street food staple in Isan, found on nearly every corner! Grilled over charcoal, it’s tender, smoky, and super delish – absolutely one of the foods you must try in Thailand.

For a taste that’s just as authentic, my Thai chicken wings recipe hits the spot.

2. Larb neua (ลาบเนื้อ) – beef larb

Larb beef is one of my favorite salads because it’s the perfect side dish with almost any Thai meal! It’s also quick and easy to make, bringing together fresh flavors with a perfect balance of heat and taste.

3. Sai krok Isan (ไส้กรอกอีสาน) – Isan-style fermented sausage

Sai krok Isan, savory and slightly sour fermented sausages, are typically grilled right by the roadside and served with fresh chilies and veggies. This unique bite is a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Isan street food!

Northern Thai specialities

What really makes Northern Thai food for me? Those awesome dipping sauces! Pair them with fresh vegetables and grilled meats, and you’ve got a meal the whole family will love.

1. Nam prik ong (น้ำพริกอ่อง)

This Northern Thai pork and tomato dip is a spicy, meaty mix of tomatoes and pork that’s impossible to resist. Grab some fresh veggies + pork rinds, and dig in!

2. Khao soi (ข้าวซอย)

The translation of “khao soi” is “sliced rice.” However, the name refers to the dish itself, which is a Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup, rather than the literal translation.

Khao soi is one of my favorite curries that you’ll find all over Thailand, but it’s hands-down the best and most authentic when you try it in Chiang Mai!

3. Nam prik noom (น้ำพริกหนุ่ม) – Northern Thai green chili dip

Nam prik noom is a vegan dip packed with smoky and spicy flavors. It’s perfect for scooping up with fresh vegetables for a light, flavorful snack any time of the day.

Craving more? Try these!

• Thai food for picky eaters
• Thai street food recipes
• Is Thai food healthy?
• Is Thai food spicy?

Conclusion

These Thai dishes are just the beginning of the food you should try in Thailand! From street food to regional specialties, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to share your favorite dish in the comments, and follow me on social media for even more tasty content! Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.