Thailand’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its culture, offering a tantalizing array of flavors that delight the senses. From bustling street food markets to high-end restaurants, the country is a paradise for food lovers. Here, we explore some of the best examples of Thai cuisine and where to find them.

Pad Thai in Bangkok

          Pad Thai is perhaps the most famous Thai dish internationally. This stir-fried noodle dish combines rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp (or chicken), and a medley of vegetables. It’s flavored with tamarind paste, fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic, and shallots, and garnished with crushed peanuts, fresh lime, and chili flakes. The result is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. In Bangkok, you’ll find some of the best Pad Thai at Thipsamai Pad Thai, located in the old city area near the Giant Swing. Established in 1966, Thipsamai is renowned for its “Pad Thai Pratu Phi” which is cooked over a charcoal fire, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor. 

Khao Soi in Chiang Rai

          Khao Soi is a Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup, made with a rich, creamy coconut milk curry broth, and served with boiled and crispy egg noodles. It’s typically garnished with pickled mustard greens, shallots, lime, and a dollop of chili paste. The dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. In Chiang Rai, Khao Soi Phor Jai is a legendary spot for this dish. Their Khao Soi is deeply flavorful, with perfectly cooked noodles and a rich, aromatic broth. 

Kaeng Tai Pla in Nakhon Si Thammarat

          Kaeng Tai Pla is a challenging yet rewarding dish for adventurous eaters. Well renowned now as “the worst soup in the world,” it originates from Southern Thailand and is known for its strong, pungent flavors. The curry includes fermented fish entrails, vegetables, and an array of potent spices, creating a taste that’s uniquely intense and rich. This curry is usually served with fresh vegetables on a separate plate and eaten along with steamed rice. In Nakhon Si Thammarat, Krua Nakhon is celebrated for its authentic Kaeng Tai Pla. The restaurant offers an intensely flavorful version, with a robust fish entrail sauce and a variety of fresh, locally sourced vegetables. 

Som Tum in Udon Thani 

          Som Tum, or green papaya salad, hails from the northeastern region of Thailand, known as Isaan. This vibrant salad is made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, and peanuts, and is dressed with a mix of lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and chili. The result is a refreshing, spicy, and tangy dish that’s highly addictive. In Udon Thani, one of the best places to savor this dish is Som Tum Jay Kai, a local favorite that has been a staple for over fifty years. Each dish here boasts a unique flavor, enhanced by their homemade fermented fish sauce. A standout dish is the Tam Khod Mua, a spicy salad featuring a medley of ingredients including crispy pork rinds and fermented sausage, making it a hearty and flavorful experience.