Bangkok is a city built on street food. You can spend a fortune in a restaurant, but the real magic is cooked on the side of the road. Some people avoid it because they are afraid of getting sick. I say you are missing the best part of the city if you skip it. These are five street foods I have eaten more than once and would eat again tomorrow.
Pad Thai from a Cart
Forget the tourist restaurants. Find a small cart with a hot wok, a steady line of locals, and someone cooking fast. For less than two dollars you get a plate of noodles that beats anything back home.
Mango Sticky Rice
Fresh mango slices with sticky rice and sweet coconut milk. It is simple, cheap, and the perfect dessert when the heat is wearing you down.
Som Tam
This is a green papaya salad pounded with lime, chili, and fish sauce. It is spicy, sour, and addictive. If you see it being made to order, stop and get some.
Grilled Pork Skewers
These are marinated in a sweet and salty sauce, grilled over charcoal, and served with a small bag of sticky rice. You will smell them before you see them.
Fried Bananas
Slices of banana coated in a light batter and fried until crisp. They are cheap, hot, and best eaten while walking.
How to Eat Street Food Safely
Choose stalls with a crowd of locals. Watch how the food is handled. Eat it hot. Bring hand sanitizer. Do that and you can enjoy it without worrying.
If you are heading to Bangkok check my Timothy’s Travel Tips section for advice on where to stay, how to get around, and what to pack.
