1. What are some of the most popular local dishes to try in Pai?
– Khao soi – a northern Thai noodle dish with curry broth, chicken or beef, and crispy noodles on top.– Sai ua – spicy local sausage made with minced pork, herbs, and spices.
– Gai yang – grilled chicken marinated in lemongrass, garlic, and other spices.
– Som tam – spicy green papaya salad.
– Moo gra ta – Thai-style BBQ served with various meats and vegetables to grill at your table.
– Kanom jeen nam ngiew – fermented rice noodles in a rich tomato-based broth with meat or tofu.
– Naem khao tod – crispy rice salad with peanuts, lime juice, cilantro, and other toppings.
– Nam prik noom – spicy green chili dip served with fresh vegetables for dipping.
2. Are there any must-visit street food markets or stalls in Pai?
Yes, the Pai Walking Street Market is a popular spot for trying street food. Some recommended stalls include Daeng’s Noodles for khao soi, Maynam Steakhouse for delicious grilled meats, Baan Suan Pai for vegan options such as falafel wraps and vegetarian sausages.
3. Are there any unique local dishes that can only be found in Pai?
One of the unique dishes in Pai is kanom jeen nam ngiew which is not commonly found elsewhere in Thailand. Additionally, many restaurants and stalls in Pai offer varieties of western fusion dishes incorporating local ingredients such as pumpkin curry pizza or avocado toast topped with sai ua sausage.
4. Is there a popular local dessert to try in Pai?
Yes! One popular dessert in Pai is khao lam which is sticky rice cooked inside bamboo tubes and filled with sweet coconut milk. You can find this delicious treat at most food markets or roadside stands.
5. Are there any recommended restaurants in Pai that specialize in local cuisine?
Some recommended restaurants specializing in local cuisine include Earth Tone Cafe for organic and vegan options, Silhouette for northern Thai dishes with a modern twist, and Sai Thong Pochana for a variety of local dishes at affordable prices.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at restaurants in Pai?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Pai that offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular choices include Earth Tone, Art in Chai, Om Garden Cafe, and Good Life Pizza. These restaurants cater to vegetarians and vegans by using fresh, locally-sourced produce and offering a variety of plant-based dishes such as curries, salads, sandwiches, smoothie bowls, and more. Some even have a full vegan menu with options like tofu burgers, lentil soups, and beetroot hummus wraps. Additionally, many of the local markets also have vegetarian and vegan food stalls where you can find delicious meat-free options.
3. Can you recommend any good street food stalls or markets for trying local food?
1. Chatuchak Weekend Market – Located in Bangkok and known as the largest market in Thailand, this is a great place to try various local dishes such as Pad Thai, grilled meats on skewers, or fresh tropical fruits.
2. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar – This bustling night market offers a wide range of street food options including spicy sausages, noodle dishes, and Northern Thai specialties like Khao Soi curry.
3. Phuket Town Night Market – This charming market is a great spot for sampling authentic Southern Thai cuisine, such as seafood dishes and spicy curries.
4. Amphawa Floating Market – Experience Thailand’s floating markets at this picturesque spot, where you can find freshly cooked seafood and other local dishes sold from boats along the canal.
5. Sukhumvit Soi 38 Night Food Market – Located in Bangkok’s busy Sukhumvit area, this popular street food market offers a variety of dishes from different regions of Thailand, with a focus on affordable and flavorful eats.
6. Khao San Road – Known as the backpacker hub of Bangkok, Khao San Road is filled with street food vendors selling cheap and delicious bites like papaya salad, fried rice, and grilled meats on sticks.
7. Ayutthaya Night Market – Just outside of Bangkok lies Ayutthaya’s vibrant night market where you can find traditional Thai snacks like mango sticky rice and grilled pork skewers alongside more exotic options like insects or scorpions on a stick (for the daring!).
8. Sam Yan Market – Located near Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, this lively market is popular among locals for its wide variety of delicious street food options at affordable prices.
9. Phetchaburi Road Food Street (Soi 19) – Also situated in Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit area, this foodie paradise features an array of street stalls offering tasty treats like crispy Pad Thai and grilled squid.
10. Talat Rot Fai Night Market – Located in Bangkok’s Srinakarin district, this large night market is a food lover’s dream with endless options of Thai street food and international cuisines to try.
4. Are there any must-try dishes specific to Pai or its surrounding regions?
Some must-try dishes specific to Pai and its surrounding regions include:-Moo Yang: grilled pork skewers marinated in a mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and cilantro.
-Khao Soi: a popular northern Thai noodle dish made with a rich curry broth, meat (usually chicken or beef), crispy egg noodles, and pickled mustard greens.
-Hang Lay Curry: a mildly spicy and aromatic curry made with pork belly, ginger, turmeric, and tamarind.
-Sai Oua: Northern Thai sausages made with minced pork mixed with herbs and spices such as lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.
-Miang Kum: a traditional appetizer consisting of an array of ingredients wrapped in betel leaf, such as shallots, ginger, peanuts, dried shrimp, lime wedges, and tamarind sauce.
-Sticky Rice: commonly eaten in Pai as a side dish or snack. It is served in small bamboo baskets and eaten by hand with various dips or alongside curries.
-Nam Prik Num: a flavorful dip made from roasted green chilies, shallots, garlic paste, shrimp paste, palm sugar and fish sauce. It is commonly served with raw vegetables for dipping.
-Khaub Lam Daeng: a slow-cooked stew made with beef or buffalo meat simmered in red curry paste with peanut butter and herbs like lemongrass and galangal.
-Bamboo Shoot Salad (Yum Nor Mai Dong): A tangy salad made with boiled young bamboo shoots mixed with tomatoes
5. What are some good places to get a traditional Northern Thai meal in Pai?
1. Na’s Kitchen: This restaurant has a rustic and traditional ambiance, serving up classic Northern Thai dishes like khao soi and larb kai (spicy chicken salad).
2. Baan Suan Pai: Located in a beautiful garden setting, this restaurant offers a wide variety of Northern Thai dishes like nam prik ong (minced pork chili dip) and gaeng hang lay (Burmese-style curry).
3. Reung Kham Mae Sai: A popular local spot for authentic Northern Thai cuisine such as sai oua (herbal sausage) and yum ma kheua yao (grilled eggplant salad).
4. Tutu’s Kitchen: This cozy homestyle eatery serves up delicious Khantoke dinners – a traditional northern Thai meal usually consisting of several small dishes.
5. Ploy Negroni: A unique fusion restaurant with a focus on traditional Lanna cuisine, offering creative takes on classic dishes like khao kan chin (steamed pork balls), along with some Western options.
6. Jikko Bar & Restaurant: Known for their flavorful curries, this spot also serves up delicious Northern Thai specialties including khao soi and spicy stir-fried vegetables.
7. Hanumarn House: Set in a beautiful wooden house, this restaurant specializes in authentic Lanna cuisine using fresh local ingredients.
8. Gyoza Queen: Though not technically a traditional Thai restaurant, Gyoza Queen serves up delicious homemade dumplings inspired by both Japanese and Northern Thai flavors.
9. Charlie & Lek’s Kitchen: A small family-run restaurant that serves excellent Khantoke dinner sets with a variety of Northern Thai dishes.
10. The Countryside Pai: Located just outside of Pai town, this countryside restaurant offers stunning views along with traditional northern dishes like gaeng om (herbal stew) and kua gling (dry curry).
6. Are there any famous or highly recommended restaurants in Pai for tourists to visit?
Yes, there are several famous and highly recommended restaurants in Pai for tourists to visit. Some popular options include:
1. Pai Hot Springs Restaurant: This restaurant is known for its beautiful location near the Pai hot springs and its delicious Thai dishes.
2. Be Bop Café: A favorite among locals and tourists alike, this cozy restaurant serves up a variety of Thai and Western dishes.
3. Earth Tone: This vegetarian restaurant offers a tranquil atmosphere and serves organic, vegan and raw food options.
4. The House of Artisan: A great spot for coffee lovers, this cafe also offers tasty pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
5. Na’s Kitchen: Famous for their traditional Northern Thai dishes like khao soi and papaya salad, this restaurant is always busy with visitors.
6. Om Garden Cafe & Bar: Set in a lush garden with a relaxed vibe, this restaurant serves up excellent wood-fired pizzas and other tasty dishes.
7. The Coffee House Pai: Along with great coffee, this cafe also offers delicious desserts like homemade ice cream and cheesecake.
8. Cafe de ThaanAoan: Known for its stunning sunset views, Italian-inspired cuisine and homemade breads, this restaurant is a must-visit in Pai.
9. Witching Well Restaurant & Bar: With an eclectic menu featuring dishes from all over the world, this charming restaurant is perfect for travelers craving something different.
10.Mom N Popshipaikao Seecafe&CulinarySchool : This unique eatery offers cooking classes where you can learn how to make traditional Northern Thai dishes before enjoying your creations in their peaceful garden setting.
7. How is the quality of the seafood in Pai, considering its inland location?
The quality of seafood in Pai can vary depending on where it is sourced from. As Pai is located inland, far away from the coast, most of the seafood available there is likely to be frozen or brought in from nearby coastal areas.
While some restaurants may take extra care to ensure the freshness and quality of their seafood, others may not have the resources or demand to do so. Therefore, it is advisable to do some research or ask locals for recommendations before trying any seafood dishes in Pai. Overall, while the quality of seafood may not be as good as in coastal regions, there are still some tasty and fresh options available in Pai.
8. Are there any organic or farm-to-table dining options in Pai?
Yes, Pai has a number of organic and farm-to-table dining options. Some popular places include Earth Tone (which serves organic vegetarian and vegan dishes made with produce from their own garden), Rasta House (serving farm-fresh Thai dishes), and Killala Organic Cafe (a cozy spot known for their homemade breads and use of organic ingredients). You can also find farm-to-table options at restaurants such as Om Garden Cafe, Art in Chai Cafe, and The Eating Tree.
9. What are some common drinks or beverages that locals enjoy with their meals in Pai?
1. Thai iced tea: This popular and refreshing sweet drink is made with black tea, condensed milk, and sugar.
2. Chang beer: Locals often enjoy a cold bottle of this local beer with their meals.
3. Fruit shakes: With Pai’s abundance of fresh tropical fruits, fruit shakes are a must-try when dining out.
4. Lao khao: This traditional rice wine is commonly served with spicy northern Thai cuisine.
5. Coconut water: Sipping on a young coconut filled with refreshing coconut water is a great way to cool down on a hot day.
6. Herbal teas: Pai is known for its herbal teas, made from locally grown herbs and flowers such as lemongrass, butterfly pea flower, and ginger.
7. Singha beer: Another popular local beer that pairs well with spicy dishes.
8. Fresh fruit juices: Juices made from locally grown fruits like pineapple, mango, and passionfruit are widely available in Pai.
9. Coffee: Pai has a thriving coffee scene, so locals often enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee with their meals.
10. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or is it better to have cash on hand?
Most restaurants in the United States accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. Some smaller or cash-only restaurants may not accept credit cards, so it’s best to check ahead of time or bring some cash as a backup.
11. Is street food generally safe and hygienic to eat from?
The safety and hygiene of street food can vary greatly depending on the location and the vendor. In some places, street food may be regulated and subject to inspections, while in other areas it may not be as closely monitored. Overall, it is important to use caution when choosing street food and to look for vendors who appear clean and have a high volume of customers. It is also advisable to avoid eating from vendors who do not maintain proper food handling practices or whose food appears undercooked or unclean.
12. What should I expect in terms of portion sizes and prices at local restaurants?
Portion sizes and prices at local restaurants can vary greatly, depending on the type of restaurant and location. Generally speaking, portion sizes may be larger in America compared to other countries. Prices can also vary depending on the type of restaurant. Fast food and casual dining restaurants tend to have more affordable prices, while fine dining restaurants may have higher priced menu items.
As a tourist, you can expect to pay about $10-$20 for a meal at a fast food or casual dining restaurant. At some sit-down restaurants, entrees can range from $15-$30. Fine dining restaurants may have entrees that cost upwards of $40 or more.
It’s always a good idea to check out the menu or ask your server about portion sizes and prices before ordering to ensure that you are getting what you want within your budget. Additionally, many restaurants in the US offer take-out options which may be more affordable than eating in the restaurant itself.
13. Are there any night markets or night food stalls where I can find unique and tasty eats?
Yes, many cities and towns around the world have night markets or night food stalls where you can find unique and tasty eats. Some popular destinations for street food include Bangkok’s Chinatown, Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market. These evening markets often offer a wide variety of local specialties, from grilled skewers to delicious desserts. Just be sure to research any potential safety concerns and listen to your body when trying new foods!
14. How does the food scene in Pai compare to other tourist destinations in Thailand?
The food scene in Pai is generally more laid-back and less touristy compared to other popular destinations in Thailand. While there are still plenty of options for international cuisine, the focus in Pai tends to be on local Northern Thai dishes and traditional street food. The atmosphere at restaurants and cafes is also more relaxed and intimate, with many places offering outdoor seating in gardens or by the river. Overall, the food scene in Pai offers a more authentic and low-key dining experience compared to other tourist hotspots in Thailand.
15. Are there any popular dessert spots or street vendors selling sweet treats around town?
Yes, there are a variety of popular dessert spots and street vendors selling sweet treats around town. Some popular options include ice cream trucks, churro carts, and cupcake bakeries. You can also find street vendors selling fresh fruits such as mangoes and coconuts drizzled with condensed milk or other toppings. Various cafes and restaurants also offer a wide selection of desserts including pastries, cakes, and other traditional sweets.
16. Can I find international cuisine options such as Italian, Indian, or Japanese food in Pai?
Yes, Pai has a diverse international food scene and many restaurants offer Italian, Indian, and Japanese cuisine. Some popular options include Art in Chai (Italian), Om Garden Cafe (Indian), and Monsoon Tea Garden (Japanese).
17. Is it safe for travelers with food allergies or dietary restrictions to eat out in Pai?
Yes, it is generally safe for travelers with food allergies and dietary restrictions to eat out in Pai. Many restaurants and cafes in Pai cater to specific dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. However, it is always recommended to inform the staff about your food allergies or restrictions before ordering so they can accommodate your needs accordingly. Some restaurants may also have potential allergens labeled on their menus. It is also advisable to carry necessary medications and ask about ingredients in dishes if unsure.
18. Do restaurants typically offer delivery services for those who would rather dine-in at their accommodation?
It depends on the restaurant and its policies. Some restaurants may offer delivery services, while others may not. It is best to check with the specific restaurant ahead of time to see if delivery is an option.
19.Can visitors participate in cooking classes or market tours to learn more about local cuisine while visiting Pai?20.
Yes, there are several options for visitors to learn more about local cuisine while visiting Pai. Many restaurants and cafes offer cooking classes where participants can learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as pad thai, massaman curry, and mango sticky rice. Additionally, there are market tours available where visitors can explore the local markets with a guide who can explain the ingredients and spices used in Thai cuisine. Some cooking classes also include a visit to the market to purchase ingredients before the lesson begins.
What are some highly-rated dining options with scenic views of the surrounding countryside?
1. The Inn at Little Washington (Washington, Virginia)
2. Restaurant L’Auberge du Lac (Lac Delage, Quebec)
3. Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn (Big Sur, California)
4. La Terrazza di Lucullo (Anacapri, Italy)
5. The Farmhouse Restaurant at Johnny Appleseed’s Farm (Sterling, Massachusetts)
6. Lake House Daylesford (Daylesford, Australia)
7. Tetsuya’s (Sydney, Australia)
8. Le Jules Verne (Paris, France)
9. 360 Bar and Dining at Sydney Tower Eye (Sydney, Australia)
10. Treehouse Cafe on the Lake (Lakeside Village, Washington)