When touring Thailand, it is a must to savor authentic Thai food not only inside restaurants but even at food stalls along the streets. Not tasting any of it will make your stay so incomplete.
There are a lot of Thai dishes in various flavors (spicy, salty, sour and sweet) to try nowadays. Some you may have tasted already in your native country or in other countries that you’ve visited but they may not taste like the real one.
If you’re ready to try some of these popular hot dishes, make sure you know your table manners. This is to ensure that you show respect to the locals and especially to the older ones if you happen to encounter them.
Using spoon and fork is the norm in Thailand. Knives are not often used as most food is served in bite sizes.
Chopsticks are used only for the right food and this includes noodles and Chinese food. Some local residents are actually descendants of Chinese immigrants the reason for their use of the chopsticks.
It’s okay to put your elbows on the table when eating. Just remember not to do so when you’re in the company of older folks.
The trick to savoring the great taste of Thai food is to eat slowly. The locals do this while they discuss things with family and friends so don’t rush and follow what they do.
Finally when you’re invited to a gathering, wait for someone to invite you first before you get food on the table. This someone is normally the oldest or the most well-off person in the group. It’s a big no to help yourself during dinnertime.