Thailand
Food Safety Tips
Essential food safety information to help you enjoy Thailand's cuisine safely and confidently.
Be cautious with street food hygiene
While street food is a highlight of Thai cuisine, choose stalls with good hygiene practices, high customer turnover, and where food is cooked fresh to order.
Drink bottled or purified water
Tap water in Thailand is generally not safe for drinking. Stick to bottled water with intact seals, even for brushing teeth.
Watch out for ice in drinks
Many places use purified ice, but in smaller establishments or street stalls, ice may be made with untreated water. Ask for drinks without ice if unsure.
Be cautious with raw vegetables and fruits
Eat fruits that you can peel yourself, and be cautious with raw vegetables and salads that may have been washed in untreated water.
Be mindful of ice.
Ice used in drinks may be made with tap water. Opt for drinks without ice or ensure the ice is made from purified water.
Dietary Options
vegetarian
HIGH AVAILABILITYThailand offers extensive vegetarian options, especially during the annual Vegetarian Festival (เทศกาลกินเจ). Look for restaurants with yellow flags displaying เจ (jay) or มังสวิรัติ (mangsawirat) signs. Many Buddhist temples serve pure vegetarian food. Common vegetarian dishes include: Pad Thai Jay (stir-fried noodles), Som Tam Jay (papaya salad), Khao Pad Pak (vegetable fried rice), and various tofu and mushroom dishes. Be sure to specify 'mai sai nam pla' (no fish sauce) as it's commonly used in Thai cuisine.
vegan
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYVegan food (called 'jay' or เจ) is widely available during the Vegetarian Festival and in major cities. Look for the yellow เจ flags or ask for 'ahaan jay' (vegan food). Be specific about no fish sauce ('mai sai nam pla'), no oyster sauce ('mai sai nam man hoy'), and no eggs ('mai sai kai'). Many Thai curries can be made vegan by using coconut milk base without shrimp paste.
gluten-free
HIGH AVAILABILITYMany Thai dishes are naturally gluten-free as they use rice noodles and rice instead of wheat. However, soy sauce may contain wheat, so check if concerned.
halal
HIGH AVAILABILITYHalal food is widely available, especially in areas with significant Muslim populations like southern Thailand and parts of Bangkok.
Common Allergens
Peanuts
HIGH PREVALENCEPeanuts are widely used in Thai cuisine, from Pad Thai to various stir-fries and sauces.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Shellfish
HIGH PREVALENCEShellfish, particularly shrimp, is extremely common in Thai cooking.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Fish
HIGH PREVALENCEFish and fish sauce are fundamental to Thai cuisine, used as a flavor enhancer in many dishes.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Soy
MEDIUM PREVALENCESoy products are common in Thai cuisine, especially in the form of soy sauce and tofu.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Gluten (กลูเตน)
MEDIUM PREVALENCEWhile not as prevalent as other allergens, gluten can be found in soy sauce and some noodles used in Thai cuisine.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Essential Food Experiences
These iconic dishes represent the must-have culinary experiences that define Thailand's food culture for travelers.

Pad Thai
Iconic stir-fried rice noodle dish with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and typically shrimp, flavored with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and chili.

Tom Yum Goong
Hot and sour soup with fragrant herbs like lemongrass and galangal, typically made with shrimp and mushrooms.

Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
Aromatic curry made with green curry paste, coconut milk, and typically chicken or beef, with Thai eggplant and fresh herbs.

Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niaow Ma Muang)
Popular dessert of sweet glutinous rice served with fresh mango slices and sometimes topped with crispy mung beans and coconut cream.

Som Tam (Papaya Salad)
Spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and dried shrimp, dressed with lime, fish sauce, and chilies.

Massaman Curry
Rich, relatively mild curry with Muslim influences, typically made with beef or chicken, potatoes, peanuts, and a blend of spices including cinnamon and star anise.

Pad Krapow (Holy Basil Stir-fry)
Spicy stir-fried dish with minced meat (usually pork or chicken), holy basil, and chili, often topped with a fried egg and served with rice.
Regional Specialties & Local Favorites
Discover the authentic regional dishes and local favorites that showcase Thailand's diverse culinary traditions.

Khao Soi
A northern Thai specialty from Chiang Mai featuring egg noodles in a rich, curry-like broth made with coconut milk, topped with crispy fried noodles, pickled vegetables, and lime.
Allergens:

Larb (Laab)
An Isaan (northeastern Thai) minced meat salad flavored with fresh herbs, toasted rice powder, lime juice, and chili, considered the unofficial national dish of neighboring Laos.
Allergens:

Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Reua)
Originally sold from boats along Bangkok's canals, these small bowls of rice noodles are served in a rich, dark broth flavored with pork or beef blood, giving it a unique depth and consistency.
Allergens:

Gaeng Hung Lay
A northern Thai pork belly curry with Burmese influences, featuring a complex blend of spices including ginger, tamarind, and turmeric - traditionally served at special occasions in the north.
Allergens:

Kai Yang
Northeastern (Isaan) style grilled chicken marinated in fish sauce, garlic, and herbs, slow-grilled over low heat until the skin is crispy - typically served with sticky rice and dipping sauces.
Allergens:

Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง)
A hot and sour soup with prawns, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and mushrooms. It's known for its bold flavors and aromatic fragrance.

Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)
Thailand's national dish. Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts, flavored with tamarind pulp, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

Green Curry (แกงเขียวหวาน)
A rich and creamy curry made with green chilies, coconut milk, vegetables, and meat (often chicken, beef, or pork). It has a complex flavor profile, balancing spicy, sweet, and savory notes.

Massaman Curry (แกงมัสมั่น)
A mild and flavorful curry with influences from India and the Middle East. It typically contains coconut milk, potatoes, peanuts, and meat (often beef or chicken), with a unique blend of spices.

Som Tum (ส้มตำ)
A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, chilies, garlic, lime juice, and fish sauce. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish, often served with sticky rice.

Khao Pad (ข้าวผัด)
Fried rice, a staple dish in Thailand. It's typically made with jasmine rice, vegetables, meat (often chicken, pork, or shrimp), and eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and fish sauce.

Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (แกงเขียวหวานไก่)
Green curry with chicken. A popular variation of green curry, featuring tender chicken pieces in the rich and creamy coconut milk-based sauce.

Pad See Ew (ผัดซีอิ๊ว)
Stir-fried wide rice noodles with Chinese broccoli, egg, and meat (often pork or chicken), seasoned with dark soy sauce and sweet soy sauce. It has a savory and slightly sweet flavor.

Kuay Teow Reua (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ)
Boat noodles. A rich and flavorful noodle soup, often made with pork or beef, served in a small bowl. It's known for its dark broth, seasoned with spices and herbs.

Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง)
A classic Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, ripe mango slices, and a drizzle of coconut milk. It's a perfect combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors.
Regional Cuisine Highlights
Explore the diverse culinary landscapes across different regions of Thailand.
Northern Thailand (Lanna)
Northern Thai cuisine, also known as Lanna cuisine, features unique flavors influenced by neighboring Myanmar, Laos, and China's Yunnan province. Dishes often incorporate fermented soybean paste, dried spices, and fresh herbs, resulting in a balanced blend of savory, sour, and spicy flavors. Sticky rice is a staple, often eaten by hand.
Cultural Significance:
Lanna cuisine reflects the region's history as an independent kingdom with its own distinct culture. Traditional cooking methods and ingredients are preserved through family recipes and local markets.
Signature Dishes:
- Khao Soi (Coconut Curry Noodle Soup)
- Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)
- Gaeng Hung Lay (Burmese-influenced Pork Belly Curry)
- Nam Prik Ong (Northern Thai Chili Paste)
- Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao (Tomato and Minced Pork Noodle Soup)
Key Ingredients:

Isan (Northeastern Thailand)
Isan cuisine, influenced by Lao culture, is known for its bold flavors and emphasis on fresh herbs, chili peppers, and fermented fish sauce. Dishes are often grilled or steamed, and sticky rice is a staple accompaniment. Salads and soups are common, featuring a balance of sour, salty, spicy, and bitter tastes.
Cultural Significance:
Isan cuisine reflects the region's strong cultural ties to Laos and its agricultural heritage. Sharing food is an important part of Isan social life, and meals are often communal affairs.
Signature Dishes:
- Som Tum (Papaya Salad)
- Larb (Minced Meat Salad)
- Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken)
- Nam Tok (Grilled Beef Salad)
- Khao Poon (Rice Vermicelli Soup)
Key Ingredients:

Central Thailand
Central Thai cuisine is the most familiar to international palates, characterized by its balanced flavors and use of coconut milk, curry pastes, and fresh herbs. Influenced by royal cuisine and international trade, dishes often feature intricate presentations and a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy tastes.
Cultural Significance:
Central Thai cuisine reflects the region's historical role as a center of trade and cultural exchange. Royal cuisine has played a significant role in shaping the region's culinary traditions, emphasizing refined flavors and elegant presentation.
Signature Dishes:
- Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
- Pad Thai (Stir-fried Rice Noodles)
- Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry)
- Massaman Curry
- Tom Kha Gai (Coconut Chicken Soup)
Key Ingredients:

Southern Thailand
Southern Thai cuisine is known for its fiery heat and rich flavors, influenced by neighboring Malaysia and Indonesia. Dishes often feature coconut milk, turmeric, and a generous amount of chili peppers. Seafood is prominent, reflecting the region's coastal location.
Cultural Significance:
Southern Thai cuisine reflects the region's unique cultural blend, influenced by Malay, Indonesian, and Thai traditions. The abundance of seafood and spices contributes to the region's distinct culinary identity.
Signature Dishes:
- Gaeng Som Pla (Sour Fish Curry)
- Khao Yam (Rice Salad with Shrimp Paste)
- Sataw Pad Goong (Stink Beans with Shrimp)
- Gaeng Tai Pla (Fish Kidney Curry)
- Khua Kling (Dry Southern Thai Curry)
Key Ingredients:

Sweet Delights & Desserts
Indulge in Thailand's traditional sweet treats and desserts.

Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง)
Ripe mango served with sweet sticky rice drizzled with coconut milk. A classic Thai dessert, especially popular during the mango season.

Kluay Buat Chee (กล้วยบวชชี)
Bananas simmered in sweet coconut milk, often flavored with pandan leaves and a pinch of salt. A simple yet satisfying dessert.

Khanom Krok (ขนมครก)
Small, round coconut-rice pancakes cooked in a special pan. The crispy edges and soft, creamy center create a delightful textural contrast.
Traditional Beverages
Discover Thailand's traditional drinks, from locally produced spirits to regional wines.

Sato (สาโท)
A traditional rice wine, often homemade in rural areas. It has a slightly sweet and sour flavor and a relatively low alcohol content.

Lao Khao (เหล้าขาว)
A potent distilled rice spirit, similar to vodka. It is often consumed neat or mixed with other beverages.

Beer (เบียร์)
Local and international beer brands are widely available in Thailand. Popular local brands include Singha, Chang, and Leo.
Soft Beverages
Discover Thailand's traditional non-alcoholic drinks, from local teas to refreshing juices.

Cha Yen (ชาเย็น)
Thai iced tea, a strong brewed Ceylon tea mixed with condensed milk and spices like star anise and cardamom. Served chilled with ice.

Nam Manao (น้ำมะนาว)
Freshly squeezed lime juice mixed with water and sugar. A refreshing and tart beverage, perfect for hot weather.

Oliang (โอเลี้ยง)
Thai iced black coffee, strong and robust, often sweetened with condensed milk and served over ice.