Thailand is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of flavors, from spicy and sour to sweet and savory. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, relaxing on an island, or discovering the cultural gems of Chiang Mai, Thai cuisine is an essential part of the experience. Here’s a list of must-try Thai dishes and where to find the best versions before you leave the country.
1. Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) – The Iconic Stir-Fried Noodles
Why You Should Try It:
Pad Thai is Thailand’s most famous dish, known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors. Made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and peanuts, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal.
Where to Eat the Best Pad Thai:
Thipsamai (Bangkok) – One of the most famous Pad Thai restaurants in Thailand.
Pad Thai Fai Ta Lu (Bangkok) – Offers a gourmet version with crispy pork.
Night Markets (Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi) – Affordable and authentic street-style Pad Thai.
Pro Tip:
Squeeze fresh lime over your Pad Thai and mix in some crushed peanuts for extra flavor!
2. Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง) – Spicy & Sour Shrimp Soup
Why You Should Try It:
This hot and sour shrimp soup is packed with lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, chilies, and fresh lime juice. It’s one of Thailand’s most flavorful and aromatic dishes.
Where to Eat the Best Tom Yum Goong:
P’Aor (Bangkok) – Famous for its creamy, rich Tom Yum soup.
Raan Jay Fai (Bangkok) – Michelin-starred street food with a premium Tom Yum.
Any seafood restaurant in Phuket or Krabi – Fresh seafood makes all the difference!
Pro Tip:
There are two versions: Nam Sai (clear broth) and Nam Khon (creamy with evaporated milk). Try both to find your favorite!
3. Som Tam (ส้มตำ) – Spicy Green Papaya Salad
Why You Should Try It:
Som Tam is a refreshing yet fiery salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chili, tossed in a tangy fish sauce dressing. It’s a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors.
Where to Eat the Best Som Tam:
Som Tam Nua (Bangkok) – A legendary spot for papaya salad lovers.
Isaan Street Stalls (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen) – The best Som Tam often comes from small vendors.
Jim Thompson House Restaurant (Bangkok) – A refined version in a beautiful setting.
Pro Tip:
Ask for Som Tam Thai (less spicy and slightly sweet) if you can’t handle extreme heat. For a stronger kick, try Som Tam Poo Pla Ra (with fermented crab and fish sauce).
4. Khao Soi (ข้าวซอย) – Northern Thai Coconut Curry Noodles
Why You Should Try It:
A specialty of Chiang Mai, Khao Soi is a rich and creamy coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, and lime. It’s one of the most unique Thai dishes.
Where to Eat the Best Khao Soi:
Khao Soi Mae Sai (Chiang Mai) – Local favorite with deep flavors.
Khao Soi Islam (Chiang Mai) – Halal-friendly version with tender beef.
Khao Soi Khun Yai (Chiang Mai) – Hidden gem run by an elderly grandma.
Pro Tip:
Always mix the crispy and soft noodles together for the best texture in every bite!
5. Gaeng Keow Wan (แกงเขียวหวาน) – Green Curry
Why You Should Try It:
Thai green curry is a fragrant, creamy dish made from coconut milk, green chilies, Thai basil, and your choice of meat (usually chicken or beef). It pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or rice noodles.
Where to Eat the Best Green Curry:
Baan Khanitha (Bangkok) – Serves high-quality, traditional green curry.
Blue Elephant (Bangkok & Phuket) – A fine-dining take on Thai classics.
Homemade-style at local markets – Look for small vendors selling curries with rice.
Pro Tip:
If you love spicy food, ask for it “phed mak” (very spicy), but if you prefer a milder taste, go for “mai phed” (not spicy).
6. Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง) – Thailand’s Famous Dessert
Why You Should Try It:
This classic Thai dessert combines sweet, ripe mango with sticky rice soaked in coconut milk. It’s a simple but heavenly dish that perfectly balances sweetness and creaminess.
Where to Eat the Best Mango Sticky Rice:
Mae Varee (Bangkok) – Famous for its fresh mangoes.
Boonsap Thai Desserts (Bangkok) – A legendary place near Chinatown.
Any street food market in Thailand – Always a reliable option!
Pro Tip:
For a fun twist, try black sticky rice instead of the regular white sticky rice.
7. Thai Boat Noodles (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ) – A Bowl of Bold Flavors
Why You Should Try It:
Boat noodles are small, flavorful bowls of dark broth-based noodles, originally served from boats along Bangkok’s canals. They’re rich, savory, and often come with pork or beef.
Where to Eat the Best Thai Boat Noodles:
Victory Monument (Bangkok) – Home to many legendary boat noodle stalls.
Kway Teow Rua (Bangkok) – A top-rated shop specializing in boat noodles.
Local markets across Thailand – Look for small bowls stacked high on tables!
Pro Tip:
Order multiple bowls – they’re small, and most people eat at least 3–5 in one sitting!
Final Thoughts
Thai cuisine is a vibrant mix of flavors, textures, and aromas that make it one of the world’s most beloved food cultures. Whether you’re a fan of spicy soups, creamy curries, or refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone in Thailand.
Before you leave, make sure to try as many of these dishes as possible – and if you fall in love with Thai food, why not take a cooking class so you can recreate the magic at home?