Culinary icon Jay Fai is sharing her top spots for dining and drinking around Thailand.
Bangkok’s street food scene is chaotic, bustling, and a sensory overload.
And we mean that in the best way possible.
A dish of Udon Thani from the Khiri Wongkot Village.Credit:Courtesy of The Tourism Authority of Thailand
Here are the flavors and places Fai thinks you should try next around Thailand.
Travel + Leisure: What is your favorite food city in Thailand, and why?
My absolute favorite meal is fish and boiled vegetables with Thai chili paste.
Michelin chef Jay Fai and food from her street-side restaurant in Bangkok.From left: Courtesy of Jay Fai; Courtesy of The Tourism Authority of Thailand
I could eat this every day and never get bored plus, it’s healthy.
Aside from Thai food, I also enjoy Japanese and Korean cuisine, especially grilled meats.
I like to explore and try food from different shops and restaurants."
A close-up view of a Nam-Prik.Jerry Redfern/Getty Images
Is there a great hidden gem food destination most travelers to Thailand don’t know about?
Although I can’t recall the names of these places, I still miss their flavors."
Jerry Redfern/Getty Images
What is the number one Thai street food visitors need to try?
A thai dish of fish and boiled vegetables with Nam Prik.Courtesy of The Tourism Authority of Thailand
“Nam prik(Thai chili paste) is a must-try.
Thai food is generally delicious, but I recommend choosing a restaurant with a long-standing chef.
Frequent changes in chefs can affect the consistency of the food.
What is a mistake visitors make when going out to eat in Bangkok and how can they avoid it?
“I advise visitors to be patient with locals due to potential language barriers.
Learning a bit about Thai culture can go a long way.
Thai people are kind and welcoming, so yo be patient with us.
We are always happy to welcome visitors.”
What is your go-to meal at home?
“My go-to meal is mackerel chili paste with lots of vegetables.
Most of my go-to meals are dishes I learned to make and eat while living with my parents.
I usually prepare a large pot so everyone in the family can sit down and eat together.”
