Thai cuisine is one of the world’s most vibrant and recognizable — a perfect balance of spice, sourness, sweetness, and saltiness, with fresh herbs and exotic ingredients.
Whether you’re visiting Thailand for the first time or returning for more, don’t miss these iconic dishes — from simple street food to more complex restaurant flavors.
Here are 10 Thai dishes you absolutely have to try, plus some tips for those who can’t handle too much heat.
1. Pad Thai
The ultimate stir-fried noodle dish — usually with tiger prawns or chicken, egg, tofu, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts.
Perfect for your first encounter with Thai food — sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy.
Often served as classic street food.
Where to try: Street stalls in Bangkok and local night markets.
2. Tom Yum
A fragrant, spicy soup made with lime, galangal, lemongrass, and shrimp (Tom Yum Goong) or chicken.
One of the most famous Thai dishes — sour, spicy, and aromatic all at once.
💡 Fun fact: In 2021, CNN Travel included Tom Yum Goong in its list of the world’s 20 best soups.
3. Som Tam — Green Papaya Salad
A fiery salad made of shredded green papaya, lime, chili, fish sauce, and peanuts — refreshing and bold at the same time.
Although now considered a Thai staple, its origins trace back to Laos and Malaysia.
It was featured in CNN’s list of the world’s 50 most delicious dishes in 2011.
4. Massaman Curry
A mild, aromatic curry with Indian influences — usually made with potatoes, beef or chicken, and warm spices.
Less spicy than red or green curry, it’s perfect for those who want to experience Thai flavors without the heat.
5. Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
Rich, creamy, and spicy — made with coconut milk, Thai basil, and eggplant.
It’s best enjoyed after a long, hot day — the bold aroma and balance of sweetness and spice make it a true comfort dish.
6. Khao Pad — Fried Rice
Simple, filling, and universally loved — rice stir-fried with egg, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood.
Perfect if you want something tasty but not too adventurous.
7. Pla Rad Prik — Fried Fish with Chili Sauce
Fresh fish is everywhere in Thailand — try it fried and covered in a sweet-and-spicy sauce.
Served with rice and vegetables, this dish captures the coastal spirit of the country and its love for seafood.
8. Khao Soi — Northern Thai Curry Noodle Soup
A creamy coconut curry soup with soft and crispy noodles, often topped with chicken.
It’s the signature dish of Chiang Mai — rich, mildly spicy, and packed with layers of flavor.
A squeeze of lime adds the perfect finishing touch.
9. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
Thailand’s most famous dessert — sticky rice with coconut milk and ripe mango.
You’ll find it everywhere, from street markets to restaurants.
Thais love it so much that you’ll even find mango sticky rice–flavored candy, ice cream, and chips!
10. Street Snacks & Thai Shakes
Don’t miss out on Thai street food classics — grilled meat skewers (moo ping, sate), mini pancakes, and fresh fruit smoothies.
And of course, coconut water — the go-to beach refreshment for both locals and travelers.
🍽️ Tips: How to Enjoy Thai Food Safely
- Say “mai phet” (not spicy) or “phet nit noi” (a little spicy) if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Start with Pad Thai or Khao Pad — safe and delicious choices.
- Choose stalls with queues — that’s usually a good sign of freshness.
- Avoid raw seafood and ice from unverified sources in hot coastal areas.
- Always drink bottled water.
- If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, show them written in Thai on your phone.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to eat Thai street food?
Yes — just pick stalls with a high turnover and fresh ingredients.
How to avoid spicy food?
Ask for “mai phet” or “phet nit noi.” Thai cooks are used to tourists’ preferences.
Is tap water safe in Thailand?
No, always stick to bottled water.
Thai cuisine offers a world of flavors — from mild curries to fiery street eats.
Try these 10 dishes during your trip, explore by region, and don’t be afraid to experiment with spice levels — it’s all part of the adventure!
