Thailand’s street food scene is one of the most iconic aspects of its culture, offering an endless variety of flavors, textures, and experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the street food in Thailand is an essential part of the adventure. From savory snacks to sweet treats, the food on the streets will never disappoint.

Classic Thai Street Food Favorites

One of the most famous Thai dishes is Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish that’s often served with prawns, tofu, and a delicate egg wrap. A must-try place for this dish is Thip Samai in Bangkok, where the Pad Thai is cooked with traditional methods over a charcoal stove, giving it a unique smoky flavor that sets it apart from others. It’s served with a variety of condiments, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, Stir-fry Glass Noodles (Pad Woon Sen) is a popular choice in Chinatown. Made with Thai glass noodles, this dish combines a bit of spice and crunch, with a blend of vegetables, hot sauces, and spices, making it a delightful meal for those who love bold flavors.

For a comforting soup, Pork Noodle Soup (Kuay Teow Moo) offers a rich, flavorful broth filled with noodles, minced pork balls, and various cuts of pork like liver and intestine. A sprinkle of chili flakes and fish sauce enhances the taste, making it a beloved option for both locals and visitors.

Sweet Delights to Cool Off

When it comes to cooling off in the heat, Shaved Ice Desserts (Nam Kaeng Sai) are a refreshing option. Typically served with coconut milk and a variety of colorful toppings like beans, fruits, and gummy bears, this dessert provides a sweet and satisfying break from the heat.

Another popular dessert is Banana Pancakes (Roti Gluay), which, although not originally Thai, has become a staple on the streets. This sweet snack consists of a doughy roti filled with bananas and fried until golden brown, then drizzled with sweetened condensed milk or Nutella. It’s perfect as a late-night snack or a breakfast treat.

Savory and Spicy Street Snacks

Jim Jum Hot Pot is another fantastic Thai street food experience. Served with a simple broth and a selection of raw ingredients like pork, mushrooms, vegetables, and glass noodles, diners get to cook their meal right at the table. It’s a social and interactive way to enjoy a meal, popular in markets like the one in Chiang Rai.

For a true taste of southern Thailand, try Southern Dry Curry (Khua Kling). This dish is made by stir-frying minced pork (or beef) with a homemade curry paste made from local herbs and spices. The combination of galangal, lemongrass, turmeric, and chillies creates a bold, addictive flavor that pairs perfectly with rice.

Pork Rinds with Chilli Dip (Kap Moo Nam Prik Noom) is a popular snack in Chiang Mai, where crispy, deep-fried pork rinds are dipped into a spicy green chili sauce. The mix of crunch and heat makes it an irresistible snack that locals and tourists enjoy.

Seafood Specialties

If you’re a seafood lover, Grilled Prawns from Chinatown in Bangkok are a must-try. Fresh and perfectly grilled, they are a quick and delicious snack, best enjoyed with a cold drink as you stroll through the vibrant streets. For something even bolder, Deep Fried Crabs (Poo Kra Toy) are a crunchy, salty treat that locals devour in one bite, giving a perfect Thai twist to a seafood favorite.

Must-Try Northern Dishes

In northern Thailand, Khao Soi is a favorite dish that combines deep-fried egg noodles in a coconut curry broth, served with pickled mustard greens and shallots. This rich and flavorful dish is a true northern Thai delicacy, often accompanied by a small portion of meat like chicken or beef.

Another northern specialty is Sai Ua Sausage, a spicy pork sausage infused with aromatic herbs and curry paste, often eaten with sticky rice. It’s a savory, herby treat that provides a genuine taste of the region’s cuisine.

The Sweet Finish: Rolled Ice Cream

For dessert, Rolled Ice Cream is a new and exciting way to enjoy this sweet treat in Thailand. Made fresh on a chilled plate, the ice cream is mixed with fruits, milk, and sugar, and then rolled into cylindrical shapes. This unique treat has become a trendy street food offering, with flavors like pineapple providing a refreshing finish to a meal.

Conclusion

Thailand’s street food scene offers an unmatched variety of dishes that reflect the country’s rich cultural diversity and love for food. From savory noodle soups to sweet, refreshing desserts, every street corner in Thailand provides an opportunity to taste something new. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of Kuay Teow Moo, savoring the smoky flavor of Pad Thai, or indulging in a sweet Banana Pancake, the experience of eating street food in Thailand is something you won’t forget.

Whenever I’m traveling, I often turn to Tripadvisor as a last resort when it comes to food recommendations. This was the case during my trip to Mandalay, Myanmar, after experiencing a couple of lackluster meals at other restaurants. Super 81 was a pleasant surprise, and it quickly became my go-to place in Mandalay. It offers that exciting local dining atmosphere and quality food that I always seek while traveling through Asia. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in the city.

Super 81 is immensely popular, and when we first arrived, it was a bit overwhelming. The downstairs area was packed, and we almost turned around. Luckily, we didn’t give up and were quickly ushered upstairs. After climbing several flights of stairs and passing more busy rooms and rooftops, we finally arrived at a private room in the back of the restaurant. Super 81 gave off the vibe of a small shophouse restaurant that had expanded to occupy an entire building, with local chatter, drinks, and delicious food filling every corner.

A Menu with Endless Options

The menu at Super 81 is a culinary adventure, offering a wide range of dishes from across Asia, with Chinese food taking a prominent spot. The list of options feels endless—ranging from grilled duck Brunei curry to Taiwan-style fish rolls, and even Singapore-style fried grilled duck Konbong. I could have easily spent the entire night reading through the menu, daydreaming about the meals I wanted to try. Eventually, we made our selections, and I couldn’t resist the “whole duck served with three kinds of curry” for 9,500 Kyat, which turned out to be a fantastic choice.

The standout dish for me, however, was the steamed seabass with lemon and chili (7,500 Kyat), a dish I never would have picked on my own, but it was absolutely delicious. The portions were generous, and the variety of flavors was truly impressive. With so many dishes in front of me, I couldn’t even remember all of them, but the meal was a highlight of the trip. The total bill for four people came to 31,300 Kyat (about $31 USD), which I found to be incredibly affordable for such a feast. To top it off, the Mandalay Beer at 1,500 Kyat per large bottle was a steal, especially when compared to the 3,000+ Kyat you’d pay at most tourist spots.

Where to Find Super 81

Super 81 is located at No. 582, on the corner of 81st Street and 39th Street in Mandalay. The restaurant is easily recognizable with motorbikes lined up outside, and the lively buzz from the food stalls and conversations filling the air. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come together to enjoy great food and company.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a unique local dining experience, Super 81 in Mandalay is definitely worth a visit. With its expansive menu, vibrant atmosphere, and unbeatable value, it’s a spot I’d return to time and time again.

When it comes to beers, Malaysia offers something a bit more intense than what you might find in many other countries. While in the UK, Carlsberg Special Brew is often associated with binge drinking due to its 8.8% alcohol content, it seems almost tame in Malaysia. The country is home to some truly “super” beers, with alcohol percentages that can reach between 12% and 15%, far higher than the average beer.

The World of Super Strong Beers

In Malaysia, you’ll find a variety of beers labeled as Extra Strong, Ultra Strong, and Super Strong at almost every corner shop, sitting alongside more familiar soft drinks like Pepsi and Lychee Juice. These powerful brews are a common sight and are often sold for prices not much higher than regular beers like Heineken.

Picking Your Poison

During one of my visits, I decided to try Hunter Super Strong, a beer brewed in Belgium with a hefty 15% alcohol content. It sounded promising: “Premium Lager” was written on the tin, and I was eager to see what Malaysia’s strong beers had to offer. This wasn’t my first run-in with such potent drinks—previously, I had a memorable (or rather, blurry) encounter with Weidmann Ultrastrong in Langkawi after a wine and dine evening. To keep things in check this time, I planned to enjoy my beer in moderation, sipping it slowly while relaxing at my hotel in Georgetown.

Strong Beer Prices

At around 6.5 RM for a 500ml can, the price of these strong beers is surprisingly affordable—similar to what you might pay for a regular beer like Heineken. When you crack open a can, it looks and smells like beer, but the taste? It’s definitely stronger. I’d describe it as a beer with an extra punch, almost like mixing beer with vodka. It’s not a drink you would chug down, but rather sip slowly.

Proceed with Caution

I quickly learned that drinking too much too fast can lead to some unexpected results. After only half a can, I started feeling the effects. By the time I finished the whole can, my plans for the evening were cancelled, and I ended up staying in with a Subway sandwich, chatting with Fanfan on Skype. Super strong beers like these pack quite a punch, and while they can certainly get you drunk quickly, they are not ideal for daytime drinking.

In summary, Malaysia’s super strong beers are an interesting experience for anyone looking to try something a bit different. With their high alcohol content and unique flavors, they offer a quick way to unwind—but be warned, moderation is key.

Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vast array of vibrant and flavorful dishes. With its rich history and cultural diversity, the food here reflects influences from various neighboring regions, including China, France, and indigenous Vietnamese traditions. Whether you love fresh herbs, aromatic broths, or delightful noodle dishes, Vietnamese cuisine promises something for everyone. After several trips to Vietnam, I can confidently say that its food culture is one of the highlights of the region. In this post, I’ll share the top 10 must-try Vietnamese dishes that will make your culinary adventure unforgettable.

1. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Pho is undoubtedly the most iconic dish in Vietnam. This aromatic noodle soup is found everywhere, from bustling street stalls to cozy breakfast tables. Pho comes in two main varieties: Pho Bo (beef) and Pho Ga (chicken). The dish features flat rice noodles served in a fragrant, savory broth, accompanied by fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chilies. It’s the quintessential Vietnamese experience, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful.

2. Summer Rolls / Fried Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon / Nem Ran)

These fresh, light rolls are a favorite snack in Vietnam. Summer rolls, or Goi Cuon, are made with thin rice paper wrapped around vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a choice of meat or shrimp, served with a tasty peanut dipping sauce. For those who crave something crunchier, the fried version, Nem Ran, provides a satisfying, crispy alternative. Both versions are commonly found on most Vietnamese menus, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

3. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette)

The French colonial influence is unmistakable in Banh Mi, Vietnam’s take on the classic baguette. This street food is filled with a variety of ingredients, including pork liver pâté, Vietnamese sausage, fresh vegetables like radishes and cucumbers, and a drizzle of mayonnaise and chili. It’s a satisfying and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch, commonly found at local street-side stalls.

4. Grilled Pork (Thit Nuong)

For meat lovers, Thit Nuong is a must-try. This marinated pork is grilled over charcoal, creating a smoky, flavorful treat. It’s often served in a variety of ways: skewered on sticks, inside a baguette (Thit Xien Banh Mi), or wrapped in spring rolls. The dish is also commonly served as a topping for noodles (Bun Thit Nuong), making it an essential part of Vietnam’s street food scene.

5. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crepes)

Banh Xeo, or Vietnamese crepes, are a delicious, savory dish with a crispy, golden exterior. Filled with meat, bean sprouts, and herbs, these crepes are wrapped in lettuce leaves and accompanied by fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. The combination of textures—crispy crepe, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables—makes Banh Xeo an irresistible treat that’s both savory and satisfying.

6. Bun Bo Nam Bo (Beef on Rice Noodles)

Bun Bo Nam Bo is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love beef. Tender slices of grilled beef are placed on top of a bed of fresh vermicelli noodles, topped with peanuts, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce called Nuoc Cham. It’s a refreshing and light dish, offering a delicious alternative to the heavier, soup-based noodle dishes in Vietnam.

7. Cao Lau (Pork on Thick Noodles)

Originating from the ancient town of Hoi An, Cao Lau is a dish that combines thick wheat noodles with juicy pork and a savory broth infused with herbs. The noodles are complemented by fresh greens, bean sprouts, and peanuts, creating a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. It’s often served with crispy prawn crackers on the side, making it a complete and hearty meal.

8. Xoi Ga (Chicken on Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and Xoi Ga is a dish that elevates this humble ingredient. It features a generous portion of sticky rice topped with tender pieces of chicken, fresh herbs, and crispy shallots. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame for added flavor, making it a perfect comfort food for breakfast or dinner.

9. Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)

If you’re a coffee enthusiast, Vietnam’s Egg Coffee is something you need to try. This unique drink is made by whipping egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk and then pouring it over hot coffee. The result is a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet coffee experience that’s unlike anything you’ve had before. Egg Coffee is especially popular in Hanoi, where it’s served in charming local cafés.

10. Bia Hoi (Cheap Beer)

For an affordable and refreshing beverage, try Bia Hoi, Vietnam’s iconic draft beer. This incredibly cheap beer is often sold in small glasses for as little as 5,000 Dong (roughly $0.24), making it a favorite among locals and travelers alike. While it may not be the most flavorful beer, its affordability and the experience of drinking it with friends at a bustling street corner or local café make it a quintessential part of the Vietnamese drinking culture.

Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and culinary traditions that are deeply rooted in the country’s history. Whether you’re slurping up a bowl of Pho, biting into a crunchy Banh Mi, or sipping on a refreshing glass of Bia Hoi, Vietnamese cuisine is bound to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So, next time you find yourself in Vietnam, be sure to explore the diverse flavors and try these top 10 dishes that showcase the best of what the country has to offer.

When news of Bangkok’s street food ban first broke, my initial response was one of disbelief, frustration, and a fair amount of swearing. However, after reflecting on the matter, I’ve realized that many of the arguments against the ban are not entirely accurate. While I can understand the outrage, I also think it’s important to consider a more balanced view of the situation. Much of the controversy seems to stem from the popular tourist spots like Khao San Road and Yaowarat, where street food is a major attraction. But the issue at hand isn’t just about these areas; it’s about how street food is integrated into the everyday life of Bangkok, particularly in more practical spaces like the central business district (CBD) and along major roads.

Bangkok is a thriving metropolis where millions of residents live and work, and it’s not just a tourist playground. While some may argue that the city’s vibrant street food culture is part of its charm, the reality is that Bangkok’s streets are often chaotic and difficult to navigate, especially for locals. The ban, in my opinion, is about addressing the everyday challenges that many residents face, rather than just catering to the demands of tourists or backpackers.

A Nod to Singapore’s Hawker Culture

One of the common comparisons that people make when discussing the street food ban is Singapore’s famous hawker centers. In Singapore, street food was banned decades ago, but the city’s hawker centers have since become a success, to the point of even earning Michelin stars for some of their food stalls. The move to regulated food courts has allowed the country’s food scene to thrive, and I don’t see why Bangkok can’t follow a similar path. The key difference is that in Singapore, the shift to organized food centers has led to a better-managed, more hygienic food scene, which is something Bangkok could certainly benefit from.

Street food enthusiasts often view the ban as a loss of authenticity, but what they fail to recognize is that it’s possible to preserve the essence of street food in more organized settings. These food courts, often open-air and located in designated areas, can replicate the street food experience while offering the added benefits of cleanliness, safety, and comfort. In fact, many of the stalls in Singapore’s hawker centers still serve the same delicious dishes, but in a more structured, regulated environment.

The Larger Picture: Bangkok’s Infrastructure

Let’s talk about the state of Bangkok’s streets for a moment. The city’s sidewalks are notorious for being poorly maintained, cluttered, and almost impossible to navigate, especially during peak hours. I recall my mother visiting and being unable to walk on Sukhumvit’s pavements because they were so badly damaged. If you’ve ever tried to move around Bangkok, you’ll understand just how frustrating it is. On street cleaning days, when food stalls are temporarily moved off the sidewalks, the city feels almost like a different place—cleaner, quieter, and easier to get around.

While traditional street food offers a sense of convenience, it also comes with downsides. The unregulated nature of many food stalls contributes to the clutter, traffic, and air pollution that plague the city. The idea behind the ban is to relocate these stalls to more appropriate locations, such as designated food courts, where people can enjoy a cleaner, more comfortable dining experience away from the fumes of city traffic.

The Issue of Business Losses

One of the main concerns raised by critics of the ban is the potential loss of income for street food vendors. But I believe this fear is largely unfounded. If handled correctly, the relocation of street food stalls to organized spaces could actually benefit vendors in the long run. These new food courts would provide a more stable environment for businesses, with better infrastructure and facilities. As for the price of food, there’s no evidence to suggest that prices will skyrocket once street food is moved to these designated areas. In fact, the cost of meals in air-conditioned malls and food courts is often very similar to what you’d pay for street food, so there’s little reason to expect a significant price increase.

One area that could pose challenges, however, is the relocation of grilled food stalls like Isaan-style barbecue and charcoal grills, which are harder to move due to ventilation issues. This will require careful planning and consideration to ensure that these popular stalls can continue to operate in a safe and efficient manner.

The Reality of Enforcement

In Thailand, the implementation of laws and regulations is often inconsistent. Past crackdowns on street vendors have typically been short-lived, with enforcement being sporadic at best. This raises doubts about how effective the street food ban will be in the long run. In other cities, similar bans have led to vendors finding creative ways to continue operating, such as walking slowly in circles with their food carts or moving their stalls to different locations when authorities aren’t looking.

The truth is that the street food ban may not be as dramatic as some fear. While there may be initial hiccups in enforcement, the overall shift could ultimately lead to a more organized and manageable food scene in Bangkok. It’s important to keep in mind that Bangkok is a rapidly evolving city, and this kind of change, while challenging, is part of the process of modernization.

Final Thoughts

While I have my reservations about the street food ban, I also recognize that progress is inevitable. Bangkok’s streets have been chaotic for far too long, and the ban could provide an opportunity for a cleaner, more organized city. The real challenge will lie in how this change is implemented and whether it can be done in a way that preserves the essence of street food culture while addressing the practical concerns of daily life in Bangkok.

In the end, the debate over the street food ban isn’t as simple as “good” or “bad.” It’s a complex issue with many layers, and it’s up to the city’s residents, visitors, and government to navigate it thoughtfully.

I’m not usually a fan of soup; if given the option between hearty steaks or grilled meats, I’d likely skip the soup altogether. However, Fanfan, on the other hand, has an undeniable obsession with soups, particularly Thai Hot Pots (Jim Jum). These fiery, flavorful pots are often her top choice when eating out, even more so than her beloved Ramen or Korean BBQ. For those unfamiliar with Jim Jum, it’s essentially a Thai take on the popular Chinese Hot Pot but with a spicy twist.

Originating from the Isaan region of northeastern Thailand, Jim Jum stands out because of its uniquely Thai broth. It’s made from a mix of shallots, lemongrass, chili, sweet basil, and garlic, giving it that perfect balance of hot and sour flavors. The rest of the experience is all about customization. Diners can select their own ingredients, such as meats, vegetables, and noodles, and cook them right at the table in a small, personal hot pot. The soup is served in individual bowls, accompanied by chili dips and other condiments for added flavor.

Where to Find Jim Jum Hot Pot in Bangkok?

One of the easiest places to enjoy Jim Jum Hot Pot is at Joom Zap Hut, a popular franchise found in many of Bangkok and Thailand’s major shopping malls. While other types of hot pots, like Chinese-style or Japanese Shabu, are also enjoyed in Thailand, the Jim Jum Hot Pot remains distinct with its hot and sour flavors that define Thai cuisine.

At Joom Zap Hut, the experience is made even better by the variety of sides and snacks that complement the hot pot. The restaurant offers a great selection of Isaan-inspired dishes that are worth trying, even if you don’t order the hot pot. Some of the favorites are deep-fried spring rolls (Poh Pia Tod), grilled pork neck (Kor Moo Yang), and Fanfan’s top pick, the spicy fried egg salad (Laab Kai Dao). The best part? All menus are available in English, making it easy for non-Thai speakers to navigate.

Nam Jim Sauce: The Real Star

While the hot pot itself is delicious, I must admit that my true obsession lies with the Nam Jim sauce, a tangy, spicy dipping sauce that elevates the dish to another level. Instead of focusing on the soup, I prefer to dip my meats into this fiery sauce, adding crispy onions for extra crunch. It’s not the traditional way to enjoy the dish, but it’s absolutely mouthwatering.

How to Enjoy Your Jim Jum Experience

If you’re looking to try Jim Jum in Bangkok, keep an eye out for Joom Zap Hut. You’ll spot the restaurant by its signature cute green dragon logo, usually located on the same floor as BarBQ Plaza, a popular tabletop BBQ joint. A typical meal for two, including sides and drinks, can usually be enjoyed for under 500 Baht, making it an affordable yet satisfying experience. Surprisingly, Joom Zap Hut isn’t a hot spot for tourists, so you’ll be surrounded mostly by locals enjoying their favorite Thai hot pot.

Jim Jum is a fantastic way to dive deep into the rich flavors of Isaan and experience one of Thailand’s beloved street foods. Whether you stick to the traditional soup or opt for a more personal twist with the Nam Jim sauce, it’s a meal you’ll want to return to again and again.