Local Cuisine is Perfect for Foodies
There is no doubt about it, Thai food makes life worth living. The rule is, if you eat locally, you can eat cheaply. And most expats go crazy on all the local delicacies. One favorite, unique to Northern Thailand, is Khao Soi. This is a yellow curry that has a distinct blend of spices with a good smack of heat. It is almost like a soup, and they fill it with soft noodles and either chicken or pork, topped with crunchy noodles for a fabulous texture. But there is so much more! What about western food?
But then it happens. The Thai spice overdose occurs and we begin to crave the food from home. Yet fear not. Chiang Mai has a plethora of Western cuisine and just about every other cuisine you care to imagine. The average price range for a restaurant meal is $8.50-$12.00.
The most enchanting aspect of eating out in Chiang Mai is the atmosphere. Many restaurants make a concerted effort towards the ambiance. Here you may find yourself surrounded by luscious gardens, floating over, fish-filled ponds underneath a sea of colorful lanterns, or amidst the tranquil sound of water features. Your biggest challenge each day will be choosing one.
One piece of advice though, just because it looks like a pizza, doesn’t mean it will taste exactly like your favorite one from home. Now and then, a little Thai culture sneaks into the food.
Supermarket Options
Local Markets
Generally, expats buy their fruit and vegetables from the locals. We would rather support struggling locals than the big corporations. Local fruit and vegies are cheap but don’t believe the “organic” signs for locally grown products. There are no regulations around organic farming in Thailand. We just wash everything regardless. There is a significant tax on imported goods, so an apple from California may just encourage you to discover what local fruits are on offer. I love the experience of the markets. They are full of life. and when you get to know the locals there, the smiles are heartwarming.
Regardless of where you end up in Thailand and whether you eat out or cook at home, I promise you, your culinary experiences will be a reason for staying. Do you live in Thailand or in another exotic country? Share your experiences with us.
by: Rachel Devlin