Published on November 14, 2025
Thailand is a food lover’s dream, where every meal is an explosion of flavour—sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and umami all at once. From aromatic curries to sizzling street food, Thai cuisine tells a story of balance, tradition, and bold culinary artistry. In this guide, we spotlight four of the country’s most iconic dishes, each with deep cultural roots—and reveal the best places to try them across Thailand.
Khao Pad
Khao Pad, or Thai fried rice, is a comforting staple found at street stalls and restaurants across Thailand. Made with jasmine rice, egg, onion, and a choice of protein such as chicken, shrimp, or crab, it’s seasoned with soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime for a perfectly balanced dish. Simple yet satisfying, Khao Pad is often served with cucumber slices and a side of nam pla prik (fish sauce with chilies) for an extra kick.
Where to Eat It:
- Raan Jay Fai – Bangkok
The legendary street food chef Jay Fai, awarded a Michelin star, is famous for her crab omelet—but her Crab Khao Pad is equally iconic, generously filled with sweet, meaty chunks of crab.
- Khao Tom Pla Kimpo – Bangkok
This local favorite is best known for seafood dishes, and their Khao Pad Talay (seafood fried rice) is a must-try, packed with fresh prawns, squid, and crab, bursting with flavor.
- Khao Soi Khun Yai – Chiang Mai
While best known for khao soi, this humble eatery also makes an excellent Northern-style Khao Pad, where local herbs and spices bring a regional twist to the classic dish.
Tom Yum Goong
Tom Yum Goong is a hot and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chilli, and fish sauce. It’s the perfect dish for spice lovers and flavour seekers alike.
Where to Eat It:
- Pe Aor – Bangkok
A local favourite known for its super-rich tom yum goong with giant river prawns and creamy broth. It’s both Instagram-worthy and seriously delicious.
- Raan Jay Fai – Bangkok (Old Town)
Michelin-starred street food icon Jay Fai offers a luxurious tom yum goong, infused with wok-fired intensity and served with perfectly cooked prawns.
- Krua Apsorn – Bangkok (near Dusit)
A reliable choice for traditional Thai fare, this place does a beautifully balanced tom yum that’s bold without being overpowering.
Som Tum
Som Tum is a fiery salad made with shredded green papaya, lime, fish sauce, chillies, palm sugar, and often dried shrimp or salted crab. It’s a staple of Northeastern Thai (Isaan) cuisine.
Where to Eat It:
- Som Tam Nua – Bangkok
This chic eatery is famous for its accessible and tasty som tum variations, served with sticky rice and crispy fried chicken.
In the heart of Isaan, this street stall delivers bold, authentic flavours that locals swear by. Go for the “som tum pu pla ra” (fermented fish and crab version) if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Tong Tem Toh – Chiang Mai (Nimmanhaemin Road)
Known for its Northern Thai dishes and trendy vibe, this spot serves up som tum with regional flair and excellent side dishes.
Khao Soi
Khao Soi is a coconut curry noodle soup with egg noodles, slow-cooked chicken or beef, pickled mustard greens, red onions, lime, and crispy noodles on top. It’s comforting, rich, and packed with flavour.
Where to Eat It:
- Khao Soi Khun Yai – Chiang Mai (near Wat Rajamontean)
A no-frills spot with a considerable reputation, this place serves one of the most authentic and balanced Khao Sois in the city.
Named after the border town, this restaurant offers deeply spiced khao soi with tender meat and bold curry depth.
- Lamduan Fah Ham – Chiang Mai (Fa Ham Road)
Known for its old-school flavours and loyal locals, this humble eatery is often at the top of khao soi lists for a reason.
Plan Your Next Foodie Adventure in Thailand
From bustling street corners in Bangkok to serene noodle houses in Chiang Mai, every region of Thailand has its own culinary treasures. Whether you’re slurping up creamy khao soi or digging into spicy som tum, these dishes reflect the heart and soul of Thai culture.
Planning your next foodie trip? Book your trip now and dive into the unforgettable culinary experiences that Thailand has to offer!
