1. What are some popular local dishes to try in Udon Thani?
Some popular dishes to try in Udon Thani include:– Kaeng Liang: a spicy and sour curry made with vegetables, herbs, and either fish or pork
– Khao Soi: a noodle dish with a rich coconut milk curry broth and various toppings such as chicken, pork, or beef
– Laab Moo: a spicy minced pork salad mixed with fresh herbs and lime juice
– Som Tam: a spicy green papaya salad mixed with chili, garlic, peanuts, tomatoes, and lime juice
– Nam Tok Neua: grilled beef salad served with fresh herbs and chili powder
– Tom Yum Goong: a hot and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves and chilies
2. Are there any street food markets in Udon Thani?
Yes, there are several street food markets in Udon Thani where you can find delicious local fare at affordable prices.
– Central Plaza Night Market: Located next to Central Plaza Shopping Mall (Udon’s largest mall), this market offers a variety of food stalls selling everything from grilled meats to noodles and desserts.
– Udorn Walking Street Market: This market takes place every Saturday evening on the sidewalk of Prajak Road. You can find all kinds of street foods here including grilled meats, seafood dishes, soups, salads and more.
– Nong Prajak Park Market: Located near Nong Prajak Park (a popular park among locals), this market is open every evening. Here you can find snacks like fried insects as well as local favorites like grilled meats on skewers.
3. What are some unique dining experiences in Udon Thani?
Some unique dining experiences in Udon Thani include:
– Dining at the Red Lotus Sea (Talay Bua Daeng): A restaurant situated on top of the Red Lotus Lake where you can enjoy traditional Thai dishes while taking in the beautiful scenery of the blooming lotus flowers.
– Dinner on a Khantoke: A traditional Northern Thai dining style where guests sit on a raised platform and are served various dishes on a communal tray.
– Dining at the Dino Park: A restaurant designed to look like a prehistoric park, complete with dinosaur statues and themed decor. The menu includes both Thai and Western dishes.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in the city. Some popular options include Veggie Galaxy, By Chloe, Life Alive, True Bistro, and The Loving Hut. These restaurants offer a variety of plant-based dishes that cater to different dietary preferences. Additionally, most restaurants in the city have vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
3. Is street food readily available and safe to eat in Udon Thani?
Yes, street food is easily available in Udon Thani and many locals and tourists enjoy it. However, as with any street food in Thailand, it is important to make sure that the food is cooked properly and looks fresh before consuming. It is recommended to also choose vendors who have a clean cooking set up to ensure cleanliness and reduce the risk of food poisoning.
4. Where can I find traditional Thai desserts in Udon Thani?
You can find traditional Thai desserts in various places in Udon Thani, including local food markets, street vendors, and traditional Thai restaurants. Some popular options include the Thanasarasin Floating Market, which features a variety of authentic Thai desserts, and Prachak Sinlapakhom Market, known for its selection of homemade Thai sweets. You can also find these desserts at many local cafes and bakeries.
5. What is the best restaurant for a fine dining experience in the city?
There are a few highly-rated fine dining options in the city, including:
1. Eleven Madison Park
2. Le Bernardin
3. Per Se
4. Daniel
5. Jean-Georges
Each of these restaurants offers a unique and sophisticated experience with exceptional food and service. It ultimately depends on personal preference, so consider looking at menus and reviews to find the best fit for you.
6. Are there any popular seafood restaurants in Udon Thani?
Yes, there are several popular seafood restaurants in Udon Thani. Some of the top options include:
1. BKC Seafood: This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and extensive menu, featuring dishes like grilled prawns, fried fish, and crab curry.
2. Piman Seafood: Located by a lake, this restaurant offers a beautiful outdoor dining experience and serves a variety of seafood dishes such as steamed fish with lime sauce and seafood curry.
3. Rom-wai Lao-kaew Restaurant: This long-standing seafood restaurant is a favorite among locals for its tasty and affordable dishes, including stir-fried squid and spicy mango salad with crispy fish.
4. Siam House Seafood: This restaurant boasts an impressive menu featuring both Thai and international seafood dishes. Popular choices here include lobster pad thai and grilled river prawns.
5. Wan Chan Restaurant: With a cozy atmosphere and delicious food, this restaurant is known for their signature dish of fried catfish with chili paste and kaffir lime leaves.
6. Lukngyeng Seafood: This open-air eatery is famous for its flavorful garlic prawns, as well as other traditional Thai seafood dishes like spicy tom yum soup and deep-fried barramundi fish.
7. Can you recommend a good spot for a romantic dinner?
One romantic dinner spot is Le Bernardin in New York City. It has a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere, with award-winning seafood dishes that are beautifully presented. The restaurant also offers a curated wine list to complement the meal. Reservations are recommended for this upscale dining experience.
8. Do any restaurants offer cooking classes so I can learn how to make Thai dishes?
Yes, many restaurants in Thailand offer cooking classes for visitors who are interested in learning how to make traditional Thai dishes. Some popular options include:
1. Baipai Thai Cooking School – Located in Bangkok, this school offers half-day and full-day classes that cover a range of dishes.
2. Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant – With locations in Bangkok and Phuket, this school offers both group and private classes with an emphasis on using fresh local ingredients.
3. Chiang Mai Thai Cookery School – Situated in the heart of Chiang Mai, this school offers a variety of courses ranging from one day to several days long.
4. The Oriental Thai Cooking School – Located at the iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, this school offers half-day classes with a focus on teaching traditional techniques.
5. Anantara Cooking School – Part of the Anantara Riverside Resort in Bangkok, this school offers hands-on classes where participants can learn how to cook famous Thai dishes.
6. Silom Thai Cooking School – This small cooking school located in Bangkok’s Silom district offers intimate classes with a personalized touch.
7. Patara Fine Thai Cuisine and Royal Thai Cuisine – These two high-end restaurants in Bangkok also offer cooking classes for those interested in learning how to make refined Thai dishes.
8. Organic Tamarind Cooking School – Located near Chiang Mai, this school focuses on using organic ingredients and teaches traditional Northern Thai cuisine.
9. Is it common for restaurants to have English menus in Udon Thani?
Yes, it is common for restaurants in Udon Thani to have English menus available, especially in areas that are popular with tourists. However, smaller local restaurants may not have English menus and may rely on pictures or pointing to dishes on display. It is always a good idea to have a translation app or phrasebook handy in case an English menu is not available.
10. Are there any local markets or food stalls that are must-visit for authentic Thai food?
Yes, there are several local markets and food stalls that are must-visit for authentic Thai food. Some popular options include:
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok – a huge market with countless food stalls offering a diverse range of Thai dishes.
2. Sukhumvit Soi 38 in Bangkok – known for its street food vendors serving up delicious and affordable meals.
3. Chiang Mai Gate Night Market – a bustling market with a great selection of traditional Northern Thai dishes.
4. Khlong Toey Market in Bangkok – one of the largest fresh food markets in the city, known for its delicious street food options.
5. Amphawa Floating Market in Samut Songkhram province – a popular spot to try seafood and other local specialties while experiencing the unique atmosphere of a floating market.
6. Bang Nam Pheung Floating Market in Phra Pradaeng district, just outside of Bangkok – another great option for trying authentic Thai dishes in a charming setting.
7. Talat Mai-Udompol (Udomsuk Fresh Market) in Bang Na district, Bangkok – a lively wet market with plenty of street food options.
8. Tha Kha Floating Market in Samut Songkhram province – known for its variety of traditional sweets and snacks made from coconut milk and palm sugar.
9. Jatujak Green Night Market in Phuket Town – an evening market where you can sample local southern Thai dishes.
10. Nonthaburi Riverside Market (Pak Kret) – located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this market offers some delicious seafood dishes at affordable prices.
11. Where can I find the best pad thai (stir-fried rice noodles) in Udon Thani?
One popular spot to find delicious pad thai in Udon Thani is at Ban Teet Thai Restaurant. Other highly recommended options include Suk Pochana Restaurant and Khon Keen Pad Thai, both known for their flavorful and authentic pad thai dishes.
12. How spicy are the dishes typically served at local restaurants?
The level of spiciness in dishes served at local restaurants varies depending on the type of cuisine and the individual preference of the chef. Some dishes may have no spice at all, while others can be very spicy. It is always a good idea to ask about the level of spiciness before ordering a dish if you are sensitive to spices. Additionally, many restaurants offer options for customers to customize the level of spiciness in their dishes.
13. Do any of the restaurants specialize in specific regional Thai cuisine?
Yes, some restaurants may specialize in specific regional Thai cuisine, such as northern Thai cuisine or southern Thai cuisine. It is recommended to research the menu and specialties of a restaurant before dining there to see if they have a focus on a particular region’s cuisine.
14. Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Udon Thani?
In Thailand, it is not customary to tip at restaurants. However, if you feel that the service was exceptional or if you want to show appreciation for a particular waitstaff, leaving a small tip of 10-20 baht would be appreciated. Some higher-end restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, in which case tipping is not necessary.
15. Can you recommend a good place for a group dinner or celebration?
There are many options for a good place to have a group dinner or celebration. Here are a few suggestions:
1. A local Italian restaurant with a private dining room: Italian food is always popular and many restaurants offer private rooms for larger groups.
2. A tapas bar: Tapas, or small plates, are great for sharing and trying a variety of dishes. This type of restaurant also usually has a casual and lively atmosphere.
3. A rooftop restaurant with a view: If you want to make the celebration extra special, consider booking a reservation at a rooftop restaurant that offers beautiful views of the city skyline or waterfront.
4. A steakhouse: For meat-lovers, a steakhouse can be a great option. These restaurants typically have large tables and hearty dishes that are perfect for group dining.
5. A brewery or gastropub: If your group enjoys craft beer or pub-style food, consider booking a table at a brewery or gastropub. These places often have ample seating and laid-back atmospheres.
6. An upscale sushi restaurant: If your group loves sushi, find an upscale sushi restaurant that offers omakase (chef’s choice) dining experiences for the whole party.
7. A farm-to-table restaurant: For those who appreciate fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, consider booking a table at a farm-to-table restaurant that offers communal dining options.
8. A seafood restaurant on the water: For groups who love seafood, look for an oceanfront or lakeside restaurant with outdoor seating options for warm weather celebrations.
9. A family-style dinner at an upscale Chinese restaurant: Many upscale Chinese restaurants offer large round tables meant for sharing family-style dishes, making it perfect for celebrating with close friends and family.
10. A fondue restaurant: Fondue is both fun and delicious, making it a great option for group celebrations. Some fondue restaurants even offer private event spaces.
16. What is the drinking culture like inUdon Thani? Are there any recommended bars or pubs?
The drinking culture in Udon Thani is quite lively and social. People usually gather at night to relax, catch up with friends and enjoy some drinks.
There are plenty of bars and pubs in Udon Thani, both local and international. Some popular options include “The Cellar Jazz Bar”, “The Red Lion Pub”, “The Aussie Burger Bar”, and “The Irish Clock”. These places offer a range of beers, cocktails, and spirits, as well as live music or DJs on certain nights. It’s also common to find outdoor beer gardens or street vendors selling cheap beer and snacks for a more casual experience.
It’s important to remember that the legal drinking age in Thailand is 20 years old, so some places may require ID before serving alcohol. It’s also recommended to drink responsibly and be respectful of local customs while enjoying the nightlife in Udon Thani.
17.Do locals prefer eating out, cooking at home, or ordering delivery/takeout?
It depends on the individual and their preferences. Some locals may prefer eating out for convenience and variety, while others may prefer cooking at home for health or cost reasons. Takeout and delivery are also popular options for those who want a meal without having to leave their homes.
18.What is a must-try dish that may not be as well-known to tourists?
A dish that may not be well-known to tourists, but is a must-try for foodies, is fried green tomatoes. This dish originated in the Southern United States and involves slicing unripe green tomatoes, battering them and then frying them until they are crispy. They can be served as an appetizer or a side dish and are often topped with a remoulade sauce for added flavor. Fried green tomatoes offer a unique blend of tangy and savory flavors and are a staple in Southern cooking.
19.Is it easy to find international cuisine options in Udon Thani?
Yes, it is relatively easy to find international cuisine options in Udon Thani. The city has a diverse dining scene and many restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian, Indian, and more. There are also several chain restaurants and fast food outlets that offer international cuisine options. Additionally, there are a number of expat-owned restaurants that serve authentic food from their home countries.
20.What are some common dining customs and etiquette to keep in mind while visiting Udon Thani?
1. Remove your shoes before entering a traditional Thai restaurant or private residence.
2. Wash your hands before and after eating.
3. Use utensils such as spoons, forks and chopsticks to eat, rather than your hands.
4. Wait for the host or elder to start eating before you begin.
5. Do not touch food with your chopsticks or utensils unless you are taking something from a shared plate or serving dish.
6. Do not put bones back on the plate; place them on the edge of your plate or in a separate side dish provided for that purpose.
7. Try a little bit of everything offered to you; it is considered polite to at least taste everything served by your host.
8. Ask for permission to take food from someone else’s plate or dish.
9. Hold bowls in one hand while eating with the other hand, instead of placing the bowls directly on the table.
10. It is considered impolite to waste food, so take only what you can finish; you can always ask for seconds if necessary.
11. Keep your left hand in your lap while eating, and use it to hold your rice bowl as needed.
12. Don’t leave any food in the serving dishes; this signifies that you didn’t enjoy the meal and can be seen as disrespectful.
13. Finish all the food on your own plate if possible, as leaving food indicates you are still hungry and may be served more than you can consume comfortably.
14. Make sure to thank the hosts after finishing your meal – say “Khob Khun Krab” (if male) or “Khob Khun Kaa” (if female) which means “thank you” in Thai.
15. It is customary for the host to pay for meals when dining out with friends, but it is respectful to offer to pay your share or split the bill equally among everyone present.
16. Avoid discussing serious or controversial topics during meals, as it may create discomfort or unease.
17. Use small talk and compliments while dining; it is considered polite to show appreciation for the food and hospitality.
18. Do not blow your nose at the table – excuse yourself and go to the restroom if needed.
19. It is considered rude to point with your chopsticks or utensils at people or food.
20. When finished, lay your utensils parallel on your plate or in the bowl to indicate you are finished eating.