I'm excited to share my recent journey through Thailand, a country known for its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and delicious food. I spent several weeks traveling through various cities, sampling local dishes, and discovering hidden culinary gems. Join me on this journey as I explore the best food that Thailand has to offer.

Bangkok

I started my journey in the bustling capital city of Bangkok, a foodie's paradise. The city is famous for its street food, and it didn't disappoint. I made my way through the narrow alleyways of Chinatown, stopping at various food stalls to sample traditional Thai dishes. The aroma of grilled meat, herbs, and spices filled the air as I walked past stalls selling everything from pad thai to grilled squid.

One of my favorite dishes that I tried in Bangkok was khao man gai, a simple yet flavorful dish of poached chicken served with rice cooked in chicken broth. The dish is topped with a sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and served with a side of cucumber and chili sauce. I found a small food cart on the side of the road that specialized in khao man gai, and the dish was cooked to perfection. The tender, juicy chicken combined with the fragrant rice and flavorful sauce made for an unforgettable meal.

Another dish that I couldn't get enough of was pad krapow moo, a stir-fried dish of minced pork with Thai basil, chili, and garlic. The dish is served with rice and a fried egg on top, and it's the perfect combination of spicy, savory, and sweet. I tried this dish at several different restaurants in Bangkok, and each one had its unique take on the recipe.

One of the highlights of my time in Bangkok was a visit to the famous Khlong Toei Market, one of the largest fresh food markets in the city. The market is bustling with activity, and it's a fascinating insight into the local food culture. I tried all sorts of exotic fruits and vegetables that I'd never seen before, and I even tasted some freshly caught fish and seafood.

Chiang Mai

After spending a few days in Bangkok, I headed north to the city of Chiang Mai, a charming and laid-back city famous for its temples, night markets, and street food. I was excited to try the famous khao soi, a Northern Thai dish of egg noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth, topped with crispy fried noodles and your choice of meat.

I found a small family-run restaurant that specialized in khao soi, and it was the best I've ever tasted. The broth was rich and fragrant, and the noodles had the perfect texture. I opted for the chicken khao soi, which was tender and flavourful. It's a dish that I still dream about.

Another dish that I enjoyed in Chiang Mai was sai oua, a Northern Thai sausage made with ground pork, lemongrass, and spices. The sausage is grilled and served with sticky rice and a spicy chili dip. It's a delicious and filling snack that's perfect for a quick lunch or afternoon snack.

I also visited the Chiang Mai night market, which is a must-visit for any foodie traveling to the city. The market is full of food stalls selling everything from grilled meats and seafood to traditional Thai desserts. I tried all sorts of dishes, including grilled squid, papaya salad, and coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell.

Phuket

As a food lover, traveling to Phuket was an adventure of a lifetime. I was excited to try out the famous Thai cuisine and discover hidden gems in this beautiful island destination. From street food stalls to fancy restaurants, I tried a range of dishes and flavors that left me wanting more.

My first stop was at the Bang Pae Seafood Restaurant, which is located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by mangrove forests. The restaurant specializes in seafood, and I indulged in the freshest seafood dishes like spicy tom yum soup, grilled prawns, and steamed fish. The dishes were full of flavor and paired well with the cool sea breeze and scenic views.

Next, I explored the local street food scene and discovered the bustling Phuket weekend market. The market was filled with various vendors selling everything from Pad Thai to grilled meat skewers. I tried out some unique dishes like Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) and Som Tam (papaya salad). The flavors were a perfect mix of sweet, sour, and spicy, leaving my taste buds tingling with joy.

For a fine dining experience, I visited the Black Ginger restaurant, located in the luxurious COMO Point Yamu hotel. The restaurant serves traditional Thai cuisine with a modern twist, and the atmosphere is simply breathtaking. I enjoyed their signature dishes like spicy prawn soup, green curry chicken, and stir-fried crab with chili paste. The dishes were beautifully presented, and the service was impeccable.

One of my favorite food experiences in Phuket was a cooking class with a local family. I visited their home and learned how to cook traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and Massaman curry. The family was welcoming and friendly, and it was amazing to learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes from the locals themselves.

Overall, my journey through Phuket's restaurants and food scene was unforgettable. I experienced a range of flavors, from street food to fine dining, and each dish left me wanting more. The local hospitality, the beautiful scenery, and the delicious food all combined to make this trip an experience of a lifetime. I can't wait to go back and explore more of Phuket's culinary delights.

Until next time happy eating......