Do you know the best meals are found on street corners? Do you also agree that there’s something uniquely enjoyable about street food that often beats the experience of dining in a 5-star restaurant? So, get ready to have the best street food experience on your Thailand trip!
Every few steps, a new stall tempts you having crispy spring rolls, creamy mango sticky rice and someone shouting “Pad Thai”, with a smile! Here every sidewalk can feel like a buffet system and the best meals are often served on plastic plates under flickering lights.
We are skipping the tourist traps and going straight into Thailand famous food! So, get ready to eat your way through Thailand by hitting the streets!
Must-Try Thai Street Food
When exploring Thailand street food markets, be sure to try these must-have dishes:
1. Satay (Grilled Meat Skewers)
Satay is a tasty Thai street food made of grilled meat on a stick. The meat is usually chicken, pork, or beef cut into small pieces and marinated with spices and coconut milk to make it juicy and flavourful.
What makes satay extra special is the creamy peanut sauce served on the side, along with a small cucumber salad for a fresh crunch. It’s tasty, easy to eat, and loved by locals and tourists alike—perfect for a quick bite on the go in Thailand.
Average price: INR 50
Places to Try: Dee Moo Satay, Satay Jae Aeng, Chong Kee Mu Satay
Also check out: 6 Days Thailand Tour Package
2. Pad See Ew (Stir-Fried Wide Noodles)
Pad See Ew is a yummy Thai noodle dish made with big, flat noodles that are soft and chewy. These noodles are stir-fried with soy sauce, eggs, meat (like chicken or pork), and green veggies, usually Chinese broccoli. It’s cooked in a hot pan so the noodles get a little bit crispy and smoky.
The flavor is rich and slightly sweet, not spicy, so it’s perfect if you don’t like too much heat. It’s a favorite comfort food in Thailand and is easy to eat with a spoon and fork. You’ll often find it at street food stalls, food courts, and small local restaurants.
Average Price: INR 90
Places to Try: Nailao Ladna, Ratchawat Area
3. Som Tam (Spicy Papaya Salad)
Som Tam is a refreshing Thai salad that combines shredded green papaya with tomatoes, dried shrimp, and roasted peanuts. It’s tossed in a dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and chilies, creating a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavours.
This salad is spicy, sour, salty, and a little sweet - all in one bite! It’s fresh, crunchy and full of strong flavours, eaten with sticky rice and sometimes grilled chicken. It’s a popular Bangkok street food that you must try in any of the restaurants in Bangkok city!
Average price: INR 90 - 135
Places to Try: Som Tam Jay So, Somtum Der, Som Tam Nua, SomTum Khun Kan
4. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)
Moo Ping is a popular Thai street food made of marinated pork grilled on sticks. The name means "grilled pork" in Thai.
The pork is cut into small pieces and soaked in a tasty marinade made from soy sauce, garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and coconut milk. This makes the meat soft, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s then grilled over hot coals until smoky and slightly crispy.
Moo Ping is usually eaten with sticky rice and served in a small bag—easy to carry and perfect for eating on the go. It’s sweet, salty, and a little smoky, and loved by both locals and tourists.
Average Price: INR 30
Places to Try: Moo Ping Hea Owen, Chinatown stalls
5. Khao Phat (Fried Rice Dish)
Khao Phat means “fried rice” in Thai. It’s made by stir-frying Thai jasmine rice with ingredients like onion, garlic, egg, and a protein (chicken, pork, shrimp, crab). Seasoned with soy sauce, fish sauce, a little sugar, and sometimes chili sauce, it’s served with cucumber, lime, and spring onions on the side, making it among the best Thailand dishes.
Average price: INR 90
Places to Try: Khao Pad Gai, Food courts like MBK Food Legends
6. Gai Tod (Fried Chicken Pieces)
Gai Tod is Thai-style fried chicken, known for its crispy skin and often marinated with garlic and pepper. The chicken pieces are typically deep-fried until golden brown and crispy, making them unique street food specialities of Thailand.
A key characteristic of Gai Tod is its balance of flavours. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy meat, and the marinade adds a touch which makes it among the best Bangkok street food!
Average price: INR 40
Places to Try: Phawana Market Cart, Soi Polo Fried Chicken, Hat Yai-style Gai Tod stalls
7. Nam Prik Pao (Spicy Chili Dip)
Nam Prik Pao is a bold and spicy chilli dip that holds a special place in Thai cuisine. This dip is made with dried chilies, shrimp paste, garlic, and lime juice. It’s usually served with veggies, sticky rice, and crispy fried pork rinds. This dip adds a flavorful kick to any meal.
It can be found anywhere in Thailand, in home kitchens, street stalls, and bottled in markets. You must try this one of the best Thailand dishes!
Average Price: INR 300
Places to try: Nam Prik Nittaya, Aw Taw Kaw Market, Khao Tom Jay Suay
8. Miang Kham (Betel Leaf Wraps)
Miang Kham is among the best food in Thailand made by wrapping small bites of food in a leaf, usually betel or cha plu leaf. Inside the leaf, you add tasty ingredients like roasted coconut, peanuts, chopped lime (with peel), ginger, chili, and sometimes dried shrimp. It’s topped with a sweet and salty sauce, then folded up and eaten in one bite.
Average Price: INR 75
Places to Try: Bangkok Street markets, Thong Lo area, Khun Tai’s cart on Charoenkrung Road
Suggested read: Malao Malao restaurant in Thailand
9. Yum Talay (Spicy Seafood Salad)
Yum Talay is a spicy Thai seafood salad famous among the Bangkok street food. It has shrimp, squid, and sometimes mussels, mixed with vegetables like onions and tomatoes. The salad is flavored with lime juice, fish sauce, chili, and a little sugar. It tastes fresh, sour, and spicy. Yum Talay is healthy and full of flavor, and people often eat it with rice or as a light meal.
Average Price: INR 200
Places to Try: Thaichi Street, Krua Thai
10. Pad Kra Pao Moo (Stir-Fried Minced Pork)
Pad Kra Pao Moo is a stir-fried dish made with minced pork, holy basil, garlic, and chilli. It’s often served with rice and sometimes topped with a fried egg. The rich, bold flavours and satisfying textures make it a famous street food in Thailand.
Many people eat it when they’re hungry and want something fast and filling. It’s easy to find in street food stalls and restaurants in Thailand. The name “Pad Kra Pao” means “stir-fried with holy basil,” and “Moo” means pork. You can also find other versions made with chicken, beef, or even tofu. The strong flavor of chili and basil makes this dish stand out, and it’s often the go-to meal for Thai people when they don’t know what to eat.
Average Price: INR 200
Places to Try: Ung Jia Hud, Phed Mark, and food courts
11. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken)
Gai Yang is a popular Thai grilled chicken dish. The chicken is marinated with garlic, fish sauce, herbs, and sometimes turmeric, then grilled until it's juicy and full of flavor. It is usually served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce. Gai Yang is among the best food in Thailand and can be found in markets and local restaurants. It’s tasty, smoky, and a perfect meal for anyone who loves grilled food.
Average Price: INR 100
Places to Try: Sabai Jai Gai Yang, Gai Yang Preecha, Gai Yang Klang Bueng, Gai Yang Jirapan, Chatuchak Market
12. Hoy Tod (Oyster Omelettes)
Hoy Tod is a crispy Thai omelette made with mussels or oysters. The batter is mixed with eggs and fried on a hot pan until it becomes golden and crunchy. It’s usually served with fresh bean sprouts and a tangy chili sauce. You can find Hoy Tod at many street food stalls and night markets across Thailand. It’s a tasty dish with a mix of soft seafood and crispy edges, loved by both locals and tourists.
Average Price: INR 100
Places to Try: Nai Mong Hoy Tod, Wang Lang Market, Chatuchak weekend market, Yaowarat Road
13. Larb Moo Tod (Crispy Fried Pork Balls)
Larb Moo Tod is a fun and flavorful Thai dish. It’s made by mixing minced pork with spicy larb seasonings like chili, lime, and herbs, then forming the mixture into small balls and frying them until crispy. The result is a crunchy outside with a soft, juicy center. It’s often served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce. This dish is a the best food in Thailand and a great snack or appetizer for people who love bold, zesty flavors.
Average Price: INR 150
Places to Try: Somtum Der, San Saab/Sab Bar, Skytrain Jazz Pub, Street Vendors in Huai Khwang
14. Khao Mun Gai (Hainanese Chicken Rice)
It is a Thai-style chicken and rice dish that’s simple, tasty and comforting. It has soft, boiled chicken placed over rice that’s been cooked in chicken fat and broth, making it rich and fragrant. It is served with a clear soup and a special dipping sauce made with garlic, chili, soy sauce and ginger. This dish is easy to eat, not spicy unless you add the sauce and is a Thailand famous food for both kids and adults.
Average price: INR 70
Places to Try: Kaiton Pratunam, Watsana Khao Man Gai, Jae Yee Chicken Rice
15. Sai Ua (Northern Thai Sausage)
Sai Ua is a flavorful Thai sausage from the north of Thailand. It’s made by mixing minced pork with fragrant herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili paste. The sausage is then grilled, giving it a smoky, spicy taste. People often enjoy it with sticky rice and raw vegetables. Sai Ua is not too oily and has a strong, delicious aroma. It’s a popular food at markets and restaurants in Chiang Mai and nearby areas.
Average Price: INR 80
Places to Try: Mae Hia Morning market, Warorot, Ton Payom Market, Chef Non’s
16. Pad Kaprao (Stir-Fried Meat)
Pad Kaprao is one of the most loved everyday meals in Thailand. It’s known for its bold, spicy flavor and strong aroma from holy basil.
The dish is quick and easy to make, which is why it’s a go-to meal for busy people. Street food stalls, home kitchens, and restaurants all serve their own version. It can be made with chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu. Many Thai people say, “When in doubt, order Pad Kaprao,” because it’s tasty, filling, and always satisfying.
Average Price: INR 80
Places to Try: Pratu Phi Pad Kaprao, Kaprao Samyan, Pad Kaprao Khun Phor, Jay Fai
Soups: Thailand Famous Food
17. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Tom Yum Goong is one of Thailand’s most famous soups, known for its hot and sour taste. It's made with juicy shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and lime juice, creating a bold and refreshing flavor.
The soup can be clear or creamy, depending on whether coconut milk or evaporated milk is added. Tom Yum Goong is often served with rice and is loved for its balance of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet notes. It's not just a meal—it's a warm, comforting experience that brings out the heart of Thai cooking.
Average Price: INR 200
Places to Try: Tom Yum Goong Banglamphu, Mit Ko Yuan, Pe Aor, Somboon Seafood
18. Guay Teow (Various Noodle Soups)
In Thailand, Guay Teow isn’t just a dish — it’s a daily ritual.
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or a late-night craving, this humble noodle soup is always ready to deliver. Made with a savory, often slightly sweet broth and packed with noodles of your choice, Guay Teow is incredibly versatile. You can go classic with pork and fish balls, rich with roasted duck, or light with chicken and herbs.
Average Price: INR 100
Places to Try: Guay Tiew Pet Tun Saraphi, Guay Teow Ped J Tuu, Kway Teow Sam Baht, Lim Lap Ngow Fishball Noodle, Boat Noodles near Victory Moment.
19. Kuay Teow Neua (Beef Noodle Soup)
Kuay Teow Neua is a popular noodle soup made with beef broth. It often includes tender slices of beef, noodles, vegetables, and different condiments, creating a rich and hearty meal.
Along with noodles, the soup may have vegetables like bok choy or cilantro and is commonly served with condiments such as lime, chilli, and fish sauce for customization.
Average Price: INR 180
Places to Try: Wattana Panich, Kuay Teow Neau Nai Soi, Big Su Beef Noodle, Prachak Pet Yang, Nai Meng Noodles
20. Khao Soi (Northern Thai Curry Noodle Soup)
It is a bowl filled with silky egg noodles filled in a creamy coconut curry, rich with spices but mellowed by sweetness. On top? A golden tangle of crispy fried noodles adding crunch to every bite. Hidden beneath? Tender chunks of chicken or slow-braised beef, infused with flavor from hours of simmering.
So, make sure you try the best as it’s one of the best things to do in Thailand you can indulge in! Tasting out different food like Khao Soi will let you know the real taste of this tropical paradise.
Average Price: INR 100
Places to Try: Chiang Mai, Khao Soi Mae Manee, Khao Soi Khun Yai, Khao Soi Mae Sai
Night Food Markets in Thailand
Thailand is famous for its lively night markets, where you can enjoy a feast for the senses with sights, sounds, and flavours. Here are some of the many well-known night food markets in Thailand:
- Rot Fai Market (Train Night Market): A large market with vintage items, fashion, and a wide range of best street food spots in Bangkok.
- Asiatique The Riverfront: A trendy market by the Chao Phraya River with upscale shops in Thailand, restaurants, and a bustling night market section offering tasty food.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market (Night Market): Primarily a daytime market, but it also offers a lively night experience with a focus on street food
Beyond Bangkok: Night Food Markets in Thailand :
- Chiang Mai Sunday Walking Street: This one of the popular Thailand street food markets turns the city into a pedestrian-friendly area with food stalls, crafts, and live music.
- Phuket Walking Street: Patong Beach comes alive at night with a busy market offering shopping, entertainment, and a variety of food options.
- Hua Hin Night Market: One of the more relaxed Thailand street food markets compared to Bangkok, featuring local dishes and souvenirs
Thailand Street Food Festivals
Bangkok is considered the epicentre of Thailand street food festivals. Although many places beyond Bangkok host their own food festivals, Bangkok remains the most popular. While specific festivals may vary from year to year, here are some popular events and places in Bangkok to watch for:
- Amazing Thai Taste Festival: This annual event showcases the best of Thai cuisine, from street food to fine dining.
- Bangkok Night Market Festivals: Many night markets in Bangkok host special food festivals throughout the year, offering a diverse range of street food options.
- Riverfront Festivals: Along the Chao Phraya River, festivals often feature a strong focus on street food, with vendors offering everything from classic dishes to regional specialties
Cost of Street Food in Thailand
While the appeal of Thai street food is undeniable, it’s important to prioritize food safety. Our street food Thailand guide provides you with travel tips to help you enjoy your food adventure without compromising your health:
- Choose busy stalls: Popular stalls often have high customer turnover, ensuring food is fresh.
- Opt for freshly cooked food: Avoid pre-cooked dishes that may have been sitting out for a long time.
- Watch for hygiene: Check the cleanliness of the food preparation area and the vendor’s hygiene practices.
- Beware of ice: Be cautious with ice, as it might not be made in clean conditions.
- Peel your own fruit: If you’re unsure about the cleanliness of fruit, peel it yourself.
- Wash your hands: Use hand sanitizer or wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t look or smell right, it’s best to avoid it.
In conclusion, the Thailand street food tour offers an incredible journey through the country’s diverse flavours and culinary traditions. Whether you’re enjoying spicy papaya salad, savouring sweet mango sticky rice, or sampling crispy pork skewers, the vibrant street food scene provides a unique and memorable way to experience Thailand. For food lovers and travellers alike, exploring street food in Thailand is not just a feast for the taste buds but also an essential part of understanding the heart of street food culture in Thailand.
