What Food To Try in Bangkok and Food Prices

Khao Tom - Rice Porridge - A warm bowl of rice boiled in broth, typically served with chicken or pork, and topped with garlic oil, scallions, and fresh herbs. Locals love to enjoy this comforting dish for breakfast, often in small roadside stalls.

Pad Krapow Moo Saap - Stir-Fried Basil Pork - Savory minced pork cooked with holy basil and chilies, served over jasmine rice with a fried egg on top. It's the go-to street food for lunch, especially from food carts in busy districts.

Khao Soi - Coconut Curry Noodles - A rich curry with egg noodles, chicken, or beef, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens. This Northern specialty can be found in regional restaurants and has a unique flavor profile that's satisfying for dinner.

Som Tum - Spicy Green Papaya Salad - Crunchy shredded papaya mixed with peanuts, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing of lime and fish sauce. A common dish enjoyed in casual settings, it’s often shared among friends and pairs well with grilled meats.

Nam Prik Ong - Northern Thai Chili Dip - A rich blend of minced pork and tomatoes, served with fresh vegetables and sticky rice. Oftentimes, this dish is enjoyed during family gatherings, showcasing the communal eating style of the North.

Khao Niew Mamuang - Mango Sticky Rice - Sweet sticky rice topped with slices of ripe mango and drizzled with coconut cream; it's a seasonal favorite during mango harvest months. It’s often eaten as a refreshing snack in the afternoons.

Boat Noodles - Kuay Teow Reua - A fragrant broth with rice noodles, usually featuring beef or pork, enriched with herbs and served in small bowls. This popular dish is a lunchtime favorite, often ordered in multiple bowls to savor different flavors from competing vendors.

Gaeng Som - Sour Curry - A tangy curry made with fish or shrimp and vegetables, flavored with tamarind and served with rice. It's a popular dish during the monsoon season, appreciated for its lightness yet bold flavors.

Thai Iced Tea - ชาเย็น (sweetened milk tea) - Strong black tea blended with condensed milk and spices, served over ice. You’ll find it everywhere from casual street vendors to trendy cafes, especially refreshing during Bangkok’s sweltering afternoons.

Coconut Smoothie - สมูทตี้มะพร้าว (chilled coconut drink) - A blend of fresh coconut flesh, coconut water, and ice, resulting in a creamy, tropical delight. Best enjoyed while exploring the Chatuchak Weekend Market, locals often add a splash of pandan syrup for extra flavor.

Mekhong - เมฆทอง (Thai spirit whisky) - Made from sugarcane and rice, this amber liquor boasts a sweet taste and distinct aroma. It’s commonly served on the rocks with soda water during celebrations, though many enjoy it neat while sharing stories with friends at the local bar.

Kanom Chan - ขนมชั้น (layered dessert) - A delicate, multi-layered treat made from rice flour, coconut milk, and pandan juice, steamed to perfection. Often prepared for merit-making ceremonies, it’s a colorful symbol of prosperity that’s best enjoyed at special gatherings.

Durian Sticky Rice - ข้าวเหนียวทุเรียน (sticky rice with durian) - Sweet sticky rice drizzled with coconut milk and topped with ripe durian—a unique fusion of flavors. It’s a popular street snack during the durian season, typically served warm, but many locals enjoy it cool for an added twist.

By the way, you might want to double-check your pronunciation when ordering “kanom” or you’ll end up with something totally different!