Thailand is a food paradise for foodies around the world. With its unique and rich flavors, it’s no wonder why Taste of Thailand is one of the most sought-after culinary experiences. I’m here to take you on an unforgettable gastronomic journey along the Land of Smiles. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the quaint villages of Chiang Mai, you’ll be able to discover a wide selection of authentic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Let’s get started! I’ll take you through a delicious itinerary of must-try dishes that will give you an authentic Taste of Thailand. From classic favorites like Tom Yum Goong to lesser-known local specialties like Khao Soi, you’ll be able to experience the best of Thai cuisine with this Thailand culinary itinerary. So, let’s get ready to eat!
Bangkok
Bangkok is a foodie’s paradise! From street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone. When it comes to street food, you can find it everywhere – from bustling night markets to street side stalls. And it’s not just local delicacies; you can find all kinds of international flavors too. The best part? Most dishes are really cheap!
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, there are plenty of fine dining restaurants in Bangkok. From traditional Thai cuisine to international favorites, you can find it all. The city is also home to some of the best local markets.
Street Food
Leaving the busy markets and high-end eateries of Bangkok behind, let’s now explore the city’s vibrant street food scene. Nothing beats the experience of wandering the streets in search of delicious dishes served up from carts and market stalls, so let’s take a tour!
The sights, smells and sounds of Bangkok street food can be a bit overwhelming at first, but the friendly locals will happily help you find your way. Whether you’re hankering for something sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone. From crispy spring rolls to spicy noodles, you’ll never go hungry here.
The best way to experience Bangkok street food is to find a stall you like and just go for it. The food is so affordable and delicious that you can explore different dishes every day. Of course, it’s always best to be cautious and order from stalls that are busy with customers.
Fine Dining
Stepping away from Bangkok’s bustling street food and local markets, there is one experience that this vibrant city will not let you miss – fine dining. Whether it is a high-end hotel rooftop restaurant or a chic bistro, the Thai capital is sure to have something that will tantalize your taste buds.
From traditional delicacies to international cuisine, you’ll find it all here in Bangkok. The city is renowned for its extravagant dining options and you’ll find some of the best chefs in the world, serving up a unique culinary experience. You’ll also find some of the most innovative restaurants, serving up dishes that are sure to excite your palate.
If you’re looking for a special night out, you can’t go wrong with one of the city’s many fine dining establishments. From the romantic ambience of a candle-lit dinner to the luxury of a five-star hotel, Bangkok has it all.
Local Markets
After all the delicious fine dining that Bangkok has to offer, it’s time to explore the local markets! Bangkok has some of the most vibrant and unique markets in the world. From vintage clothing to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, there is something for everyone.
My favorite market is the Chatuchak Weekend Market. It’s the place to go if you’re looking for something truly special. It’s so big that it’s almost overwhelming, but that’s part of the fun. There are so many different stalls, it’s like a treasure trove – you never know what you’ll find!
I love the energy of the market and people watching. Whether it’s a street performer or a vendor trying to persuade you to buy their wares, there’s always something going on. Plus, it’s a great place to find unique gifts for friends and family back home.
The Chatuchak Weekend Market isn’t the only local market worth exploring.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a paradise for foodies! The Northern Thai cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and spices, and the creative fusion dishes are unlike anything else. With farm-to-table dining, you can be sure you’re getting the freshest ingredients. I’m always amazed by the delicious food I find here! From street food to upscale restaurants, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s tastes. And don’t forget to end your meal with a delicious dessert – there’s something for everyone!
Northern Thai Cuisine
A visit to Chiang Mai is like a step back in time. Here, the Northern Thai Cuisine is as traditional as it gets! From zesty salads to fragrant curries, there’s something for everyone. I’m particularly partial to Khao Soi, a hearty soup-like curry that’s bursting with flavor. It’s served with crispy noodles and is guaranteed to hit the spot.
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, why not try Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiew, a spicy noodle soup? It’s made with fermented rice noodles and topped with a variety of meats and vegetables. Or, how about Kanom Jeen Nam Ya – a creamy coconut-based curry? It’s served with pickled vegetables and herbs, and it’s a real taste sensation!
If you’re a fan of sour flavors, you’ll love Shan Cuisine.
Creative Fusion Dishes
It’s time to explore a different part of Thailand – the north. Chiang Mai is a city full of culture and tradition, and the food is no exception. Creative Fusion Dishes are a must-try when you’re in the area. From the blending of local ingredients with global flavors, the results are nothing short of amazing!
You’ll find dishes like Green Curry Shrimp Tacos, Pad Thai Pizza, and Tom Yum Noodles. Every bite is packed with intense flavor and each dish is a unique twist on traditional Thai recipes. Plus, you can find some of these dishes served up at local street stalls or fancy restaurants.
The best part? All of these creative recipes are made with fresh, local ingredients. From small family-owned farms to big markets, you are guaranteed to get the freshest ingredients for your meal.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Now we travel to the mountainous city of Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand. Here, the focus shifts to farm-to-table dining, where you can truly experience the freshness and flavor of the region.
Farm-to-table dining is a concept that emphasizes the importance of sourcing ingredients from local farms and markets. In Chiang Mai, you’ll find that the restaurants and street markets are all about sourcing ingredients that are grown and harvested within the region. From unique fruits and vegetables to sustainably-caught seafood, there’s no shortage of freshness and flavor in these dishes.
Dining in Chiang Mai is all about taking advantage of the region’s abundance of resources. Many restaurants offer dishes cooked with ingredients that are sourced directly from the local farmer’s markets and farms. The chefs strive to create dishes that are not only healthy and delicious, but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Phuket
Phuket is a paradise for foodies! From authentic seafood dishes to local produce, there’s something for everyone. Plus, all the street vendors make it easy to grab a quick, delicious bite. For seafood, try the Bang Tao Night Market for a variety of dishes. Or, visit the Karon Seafood Market for fresh catches straight from the sea. For local produce, check out the markets in Talad Yai or Talad Kaset. You’ll find everything from fresh fruits and veggies, to freshly made curries and sauces. Finally, there’s the street vendors.
Authentic Seafood
After the picture-perfect landscapes of Chiang Mai, it’s time to head down south to Phuket and explore the delicious cuisine the city has to offer. What better way to start off your journey than with some of the authentic seafood available? From succulent shrimp and squid to flavorful fish and clams, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
When it comes to seafood, the locals tend to opt for the freshest catches of the day. Whether it’s the shrimp from the local market or the freshly caught fish from the nearby pier, Phuket has no shortage of delicious options. If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of street vendors lining the streets who are ready to serve up a variety of seafood dishes. From stir-fried squid to curried prawns, there’s no shortage of flavors to explore.
If you’re looking for something a little bit more refined, head on over to one of the many upscale restaurants in the city.
Local Produce
We head further south to the stunning beaches of Phuket. Here, you’ll find an array of local produce that will blow your taste buds away. From the freshest seafood, to the juiciest mangos, you can get a taste of Thailand’s best ingredients in Phuket.
The Phuket markets are full of fresh, local fruit and vegetables. You can find ripe jackfruit, tangy durian, and sweet dragonfruit. Or, why not pick up some tangy lime, juicy pineapple, and refreshing watermelon to eat by the beach? You can also find an array of herbs and spices, such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and coriander.
The local produce here is truly unique. So why not pick up some of the freshest ingredients to make Thai dishes at home?
Street Vendors
It’s time to head south to the coastal city of Phuket. And when you get there, one of the best things about the city is the street vendors! From spicy papaya salad to sweet mango sticky rice and everything in between, you’ll find something to please your palate.
The street vendors in Phuket are some of the best, offering a wide variety of snacks and treats. And they’re so affordable, you can try a few dishes without breaking the bank. One of the most popular items is som tam, a spicy papaya salad. It’s a great snack to start your day with, and you can find it at almost any street vendor. You can also find Khanom Buang, a type of crispy Thai crepe often filled with shredded coconut and palm sugar.
If you’re looking for something a bit sweet, there’s mango sticky rice, a classic Thai dessert.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a paradise for food lovers! I’m always excited about the fresh tropical fruits, like mangos, pineapples, and coconuts. There are also delicious seafood BBQs, where you can feast on delicious fish, squid, and mussels. For a truly unique experience, you can check out one of the beachside restaurants, which offer stunning views and amazing seafood. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring this beautiful island.
Fresh Tropical Fruits
Moving on from Phuket to Koh Samui, fresh tropical fruits are one of the main attractions of this popular Thai island. From fresh mangos to sweet coconuts, the variety of fruits is unrivaled. You can easily find the freshest produce at the local markets or even roadside stalls. Tropical fruits here are incredibly juicy and sweet, and quite reasonably priced.
If you’re looking to try something a bit different, visit one of the many fruit farms on the island. Here you can pick your own fruits and experience the unique flavours that only these tropical fruits can provide. Eating a ripe and delicious mango or papaya freshly picked from a tree is an experience you won’t forget.
Finally, if you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy the local fruit selection, head to one of the many beachside restaurants. Whether you are looking for a smoothie or a salad, the chefs here will be able to whip up something special with the local tropical fruits.
Seafood BBQs
If you were looking to whet your appetite for some delicious seafood BBQs, then you need look no further than Koh Samui. This tropical paradise is home to some truly remarkable seafood BBQs that will make your mouth water. From succulent shrimp to perfectly cooked lobster, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud.
The seafood BBQs here are prepared with a unique mix of flavors and spices that will leave you wanting more. And what’s more, you can enjoy a delicious meal right on the beach. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family-style feast, or just a quick bite to eat on the go, Koh Samui has you covered.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try an open-air seafood BBQ right on the beach? Enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks while you feast on some of the freshest seafood around. *It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Beachside Restaurants
Leaving the fragrant smell of fresh tropical fruits in the air, the next stop on our journey is the beautiful island of Koh Samui. Beachside restaurants here are a must-visit, with their laid-back vibes and stunning views of the sea. I can’t think of a better way to spend an evening than relaxing by the beach with a delicious seafood BBQ.
In Koh Samui, there are plenty of beachside restaurants which offer a variety of dishes. From classic Thai cuisine to international dishes, there’s something for everyone. One of my favorite places is the Koh Samui Sunset Restaurant, which has a fantastic menu of Thai specialties and a stunning view of the sunset.
The people in the restaurants are always really friendly and welcoming. I love how they always make sure that I have the best experience possible. They always try to make me feel at home, and I really appreciate that.
Krabi
Krabi is a paradise for foodies! Seafood curries are particularly popular here, due to the abundance of fresh seafood. I’m a fan of the green curry with prawns – it’s delicious! You’ll also find plenty of local sweets, like mango sticky rice and taro cake, which are all worth a try. And if you’re looking for a quick snack while beachside, you can’t go wrong with some freshly-grilled squid or barbequed pork skewers. Yum!
Seafood Curries
After the tranquility of Koh Samui, it’s time to head to Krabi, Thailand for a seafood feast! Krabi is well known for its delicious seafood curries which are cooked up in a variety of styles. Whether you’re looking for something light and flavorful or something spicy and bold, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your craving.
The seafood curries of Krabi come in many different forms. From the mild yet flavorful Tom Yum Goong to the fiery Gaeng Som Pla, there’s something for everyone. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the popular Gaeng Tai Pla, which is made with fermented fish, chili peppers, and other spices. For a milder option, the Gaeng Keo Wan Pla, cooked with coconut milk and green curry paste, is sure to tantalize your tastebuds.
No matter what you choose, you can be sure that you’re getting the freshest and most delicious seafood around.
Local Sweets
Let’s explore the delicious sweets of Krabi. As with much of Thailand, local desserts are a must-try when visiting this stunning destination. From colorful kanom to sweet khao mok, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular local treats is kanom krok, a type of coconut pancake. These tiny pancakes are made using coconut cream, sugar, and rice flour and are cooked on a hot skillet. They come out golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft and creamy inside. The best part is that they’re served with a variety of toppings, from sweet corn to shredded coconut, so you can customize them to your liking.
Khao mok is another popular sweet treat in Krabi. It’s a type of steamed pudding made from a combination of sticky rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk.
Beachside Snacks
Krabi offers a unique type of beachside snack that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Freshly grilled seafood is the order of the day here, with shrimps, squids and fish cooked to perfection over charcoal grills. Crab cakes are another popular dish, as are fried cuttlefish and grilled squid. All of these snacks can be enjoyed with a side of sweet chili sauce, giving them an extra kick. If you’re lucky, you can even find a local vendor selling banana fritters, a delicious sweet treat usually served with a scoop of coconut ice cream. So don’t forget to grab some of these beachside snacks during your visit to Krabi!
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is a paradise for foodies! I’m absolutely in love with its Burmese-Inspered dishes, Northern Thai spices and local ingredients. From Khao Soi, a coconut-based curry noodle dish busting with flavors, to the Khao Niew Mamuang, a sweet and savory mango sticky rice, the options are truly endless! And don’t forget the abundance of fresh and local ingredients like Thai basil, lemongrass, and galangal that make these dishes even more irresistible!
Burmese-Inspired Dishes
We now venture to the northern part of Thailand – Chiang Rai. Here, we discover a variety of unique Burmese-inspired dishes that pay homage to the region’s ancestry. From the flavorful curries to the spicy salads, these dishes are sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Khao Soi is one of the most popular Burmese-inspired dishes in Chiang Rai. This comforting curry noodle soup is made with thick egg noodles, chunks of chicken, and a delectable mix of spices. The soup is then topped with crispy fried noodles, adding a delightful crunch.
Another noteworthy dish is Yam Khai Dao, a spicy salad made with fried eggs. The eggs are served atop a bed of greens, and the whole dish is tossed in a tangy dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, and plenty of chili peppers. This salad is the perfect balance of creamy and tangy.
Northern Thai Spices
Let’s venture up north to Chiang Rai and explore the flavors of Northern Thailand. One thing that stands out about this region’s cuisine is its unique blend of northern Thai spices.
The flavors of galangal, lemon grass, and kaffir lime leaves will tantalize your taste buds, thanks to their unique mix of sweet and sour. Curry pastes are also a staple ingredient, and they are made from an abundance of fresh herbs and spices. Try making a traditional northern Thai dish, such as kaeng khua, which is a spicy curry made with fresh herbs and spices, including lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
The use of northern Thai spices can also be found in popular dishes such as pad kra pao and gaeng hung lay. If you’re looking for a unique flavor experience, be sure to try out the region’s traditional dishes!
Local Ingredients
One of the most interesting aspects about Northern Thai cuisine is its use of local ingredients.
Khanom Jeen, a popular Burmese-inspired dish, is created using shredded green papaya and rice noodles. The noodles are often served with a variety of toppings like fish sauce, coconut milk, and tom yum. Another unique ingredient found in the region is mu yo, a type of Northern Thai sausage that’s made with pork, lemongrass, and kaffir lime.
For those with a sweet tooth, tam hanar is a popular dessert that’s made with coconut cream, palm sugar, and egg yolks. The egg yolks are mixed with the palm sugar until it’s thick and creamy.
Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya is a historically rich city. Ancient Thai dishes from the city are famous for their unique flavors and spices. They’re available in countless local restaurants, as well as in royal family recipes. The royal family had a huge influence on the city’s cuisine.
Visiting the local markets is a great way to experience the local culture. You can find a variety of items ranging from Thai dishes to artifacts from the ancient times. You can also find plenty of traditional ingredients and spices used to make the ancient Thai dishes.
Ancient Thai Dishes
It’s time to journey to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, where centuries of Thai culture and cuisine still abound. A key part of any visit to this city is experiencing the ancient Thai dishes of the region.
Many of these dishes are believed to be royal family recipes passed down through generations, or inspired by the region’s unique ingredients. Traditional Thai dishes are often made with local, fresh ingredients, such as lemongrass, lime leaves, and chili peppers. These unique flavors are used to create dishes like pad thai, curry, and tom yum soup.
Visitors to Ayutthaya can experience these dishes for themselves at the local markets. The markets are bustling with vendors selling a variety of traditional dishes, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. From the aromatic curries to the sweet desserts, there’s something for every taste.
Royal Family Recipes
Our next stop was Ayutthaya, a city that was once the capital of Siam. Here, we had the privilege of trying some of the delicious royal family recipes that have been passed down through the generations!
The Royal Family Recipes were incredibly unique and flavorful, with each dish having a distinct history behind it. Our top pick was a savory dish called Khao Chae, which was served chilled in a broth with jasmine rice, herbs, and spices. It was simply divine! We also tried a dessert called Khanom Mo Kaeng, which was a sweet coconut-based pudding served with a scoop of ice cream. It was yummy and the perfect way to end our meal.
We were also lucky enough to visit some of the local markets, where we got to see a variety of ingredients that are used in Thai cuisine.
Local Markets
Let’s take a trip down south to Ayutthaya and get to know its vibrant local markets. Here, you can find all kinds of merchandise, from clothes to food, and everything in between. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the markets in Ayutthaya are a must-see.
The markets of Ayutthaya are a great place to try out the local dishes. You can find all sorts of tasty snacks like Thai-style crepes, coconut pancakes, and so much more. The food here is always fresh and you won’t be disappointed.
The markets in Ayutthaya are also a great place to find unique souvenirs to bring back home. From handmade crafts to jewelry and traditional clothing, you’ll be able to find something special to take with you.
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, try looking for some royal family recipes.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is a great place to explore the local cuisine! You can find fresh seafood caught daily in the fishing villages nearby, as well as some of the best fresh produce at the local markets. And don’t forget about the street food stalls – they offer delicious dishes that you won’t find anywhere else. I’m always excited to try something new when I’m in Hua Hin!
Local Seafood
Now let’s journey down south to Hua Hin, a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and local seafood. Here, you can find some of Thailand’s freshest seafood caught by local fishermen, and it truly makes for a unique experience.
When you arrive at the market, you’ll immediately be captivated by the array of seafood on display. From spicy prawns to tender squid, the seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavourful. If you’re looking for a more unique experience, you should try their fried fishcakes, which are made from a mix of different fish and spices. It’s fragrant, flavourful, and sure to tantalise your taste buds.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not grab a few fish and have them cooked up for you? The locals will fry them up to perfection, and serve them with a side of steamed rice.
Fresh Produce
Let’s now head to Hua Hin, a beach town full of life and fresh produce! So if you were looking for a place to get your daily dose of healthy vegetables and fruits, you’ve come to the right place.
The markets in Hua Hin are packed with locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, ranging from mangoes to coconut, and from lychee to dragonfruit. The fruits and vegetables here are so fresh, you can almost feel the morning dew still clinging to them.
The vendors here are very friendly and generous, always offering to give you a taste of the produce before you buy. If you’re looking for a freshly-picked snack, you can even get a bag of freshly-cut mango slices or watermelon chunks for a cheap price.
Street Food Stalls
After leaving the serene grandeur of Ayutthaya and its ruins, travelers head towards Hua Hin, a beach resort town south of Bangkok. Home to beautiful beaches and plenty of activities, Hua Hin also offers street food stalls that rival Bangkok in terms of deliciousness!
Street food stalls in Hua Hin are great for those who want a quick meal that can be grabbed on-the-go. Stalls serve up a variety of dishes, from som tam (spicy papaya salad) to phad thai (stir-fried noodles) to moo ping (grilled pork skewers). The prices are usually quite cheap, ranging from 20-50 baht for a meal. Plus, you can get a great look at the locals and their culture while eating at the street stalls.
One of the best places to find street food stalls in Hua Hin is near the beach. Here, you can find several stalls serving up delicious food at all times of the day.
Wrapping Up the Thailand Culinary Itinerary
Thailand is truly a culinary paradise! From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Koh Samui, there’s something for everyone. From the fiery curries of Chiang Mai to the fresh seafood of Phuket, I guarantee that you will never go hungry while travelling in Thailand. The abundance of exotic fruits, spices, and flavors make Thailand a truly unique and delicious destination. Whether you’re looking to explore the country’s culinary diversity or just relax with a delicious meal, Thailand is the perfect destination for food lovers. Bon Appétit!
