Thai food is some of the most delicious in the world. But if you’re not used to eating with chopsticks or unsure how to correctly pronounce the dishes you want to try, ordering food in Thailand can be daunting. Never fear! With these seven tips, you’ll be ordering Thai food like a pro in no time.
1. Do your research ahead of time.
Before you even step foot in a Thai restaurant, take some time to familiarize yourself with the menu. That way, when it comes time to order, you’ll know exactly what you want.
Dining out is one of the best parts of traveling, and exploring different cuisines is a terrific way to learn about a culture. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the local cuisine, ordering food can be daunting. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do your research ahead of time. Thailand is renowned for its delicious food, so if you’re planning a trip there, it pays to know what to expect. Thai food is typically quite spicy, so if you’re not a fan of heat, be sure to let your server know. Other popular dishes include curries, noodle soups, and stir-fried vegetables. By familiarizing yourself with the most popular dishes ahead of time, you’ll be able to order like a pro when you sit down to eat in Thailand.
2. When in doubt, go for pad thai.
If you can’t decide what to order, or if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, go for pad thai. It’s a classic Thai dish that locals and tourists love. Plus, it’s relatively easy to eat without making too much of a mess.
A popular dish from Thailand, Pad Thai, typically includes rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, tofu, eggs, and a variety of vegetables stir-fried in a sweet and sour sauce. The dish can also be made with different proteins, like beef or pork, and is often garnished with peanuts, cilantro, and lime. While the ingredients may vary depending on the region or chef, Pad Thai is typically served as a main course with a side of steamed rice. It is also a popular street food in Thailand, where it can be found at many food stalls and markets. Pad Thai is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for a quick meal or snack.
3. Be specific about your spice level.
Thai food can be very spicy, so if you’re not a fan of it, be sure to let your server know. Most restaurants will be happy to make your dish less spicy upon request. Conversely, if you love spicy food, don’t be afraid to ask for extra chili peppers!
Anyone who has ever ordered food in Thailand can attest that the spice level can vary widely from one dish to the next. And while some travelers may be adventurous eaters willing to try anything, others may prefer their food on the milder side. For those in the latter camp, it’s important to be specific about your spice level when ordering food in Thailand. Otherwise, you may end up with a dish that is too spicy to enjoy. When ordering, simply tell the waiter or waitress that you want your food “mai ped” (not spicy). With this one phrase, you can help ensure that your meal is tailored to your taste buds. And who knows? You might just find yourself enjoying a new favorite dish.
4. Learn how to say “no thanks” politely.
In Thailand, it’s customary for servers to bring complimentary appetizers or snacks to your table after you’ve ordered your meal. If you’re not interested in these extras, simply say “mai sai,” which means “no thanks.”
In Thailand, it’s impolite to refuse food when it’s offered to you. However, if you’re trying to watch your weight or are simply not hungry, you’ll need to learn to say “no thanks” politely. One way to do this is to say, “I’m full, thank you.” You can also say, “No thanks, I don’t eat that.” If the person offering you the food is insistent, you can try saying, “I don’t want to make myself sick,” or “I’m sorry, I’m watching my weight.” With a bit of practice, you will be able to decline food politely without offending anyone.
5. Know how to ask for the bill.
When you’re ready to leave, simply say “tang krup” (pronounced like “tong kroob”), which means “check please.” Your server will bring the bill shortly after that.
Thai culture considers it impolite to ask for the bill directly. Instead, you should say “check, please” or “bill, please” when ready to pay. You can also use the Thai word บิล (bin). Asking for the bill this way shows that you respect Thai culture and etiquette. It also helps to ensure you will not be overcharged for your meal. So, next time you dine out in Thailand, remember to ask for the บิล like a pro!
6. Pay with cash whenever possible.
While many restaurants in Thailand accept credit cards, it’s always best to pay with cash if possible. That way, you won’t have to worry about being charged foreign transaction fees by your bank—and you might even get a small discount on your bill!
When travelers order food in Thailand, they often face a problem—should they pay in cash or with a credit card? While both options are widely accepted, there are a few key reasons why paying with cash is always the best choice. First, it’s important to remember that many businesses in Thailand are small family-run operations. This means they may not have the infrastructure to process credit card payments. In addition, paying with cash helps ensure you won’t be overcharged. Credit card companies often charge foreign transaction fees, which can add up quickly. In contrast, paying with cash ensures you’ll only be charged the agreed-upon price. Moreover, paying with cash is easier and more convenient than dealing with credit cards. With so many reasons to pay in cash, it’s no wonder that savvy travelers always choose this option when ordering food in Thailand.
7. Don’t tip—it’s not expected (and might even offend someone).
Tipping is not common in Thailand, so don’t feel obligated to leave a gratuity after your meal. In fact, doing so might even cause offense—so save your money and enjoy your delicious Thai food instead!
Conclusion:
With these seven tips in mind, ordering food in Thailand will be a breeze—leaving you more time to enjoy the amazing flavors and aromas of this Southeast Asian cuisine! So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip—and your meals—today!