Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) : The Iconic and Beloved Thai Street Food

Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)

The Country’s Most Iconic and Beloved Dish

No trip to Thailand is complete without trying Pad Thai (ผัดไทย), one of the country’s most iconic and beloved Thai street food dishes. This stir-fried noodle favorite showcases the balance of sweet, sour, salty and savory flavors that define Thai cuisine, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the Land of Smiles.



What is Pad Thai?

Pad Thai is a classic dish made with thin rice noodles stir-fried in a tangy tamarind-based sauce. It’s cooked with a mix of ingredients, typically including tofu, shrimp, chicken or sometimes pork, along with egg, bean sprouts, and green onions. Topped with crushed peanuts, a lime wedge and optional chili flakes, it’s a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

The History of Pad Thai

Pad Thai rose to prominence in the 1930s during a national campaign to promote Thai identity and boost rice noodle consumption during economic hardship. Today, it stands as a beloved symbol of Thai cuisine and culture, adored by locals and visitors alike.


How to Order Pad Thai

When ordering Pad Thai in Thailand, follow these tips for the best experience:

    1. Choose Your Protein : Decide if you want fresh shrimp (Goong Sod– กุ้งสด). Simply point to the vendor’s options if you’re unsure.

    2. Customize Spice Levels: If you’re not used to spicy food, say “Mai Phet” (ไม่เผ็ด) for no spice, or “Phet Noi” (เผ็ดน้อย) for mild spice.

    3. Add Extra Flavors: Vendors often have condiments like fish sauce, sugar, crushed peanuts, and chili flakes for you to tweak the flavor to your liking.

    4. Pair It with Drinks: Thai iced tea (Cha Yen – ชาเย็น) or fresh coconut water (Nam Maprao – น้ำมะพร้าว) are great companions to balance the flavors.


Where to Find Pad Thai

You can enjoy Pad Thai everywhere in Thailand, from humble street food stalls to renowned restaurants. For an authentic experience, head to famous spots in Bangkok or try it fresh from a roadside vendor in a bustling night market.


Tips for Enjoying Pad Thai

  • Squeeze lime over the noodles for a tangy burst of flavor.
  • Mix the noodles well to coat everything in the tamarind sauce.
  • Eat it hot and fresh for the best taste.

Pad Thai is a cultural experience that captures the heart of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying it on a street corner or at a fine dining restaurant, it’s a dish that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time in Thailand. 


Order Phrases


       "Ao Pad Thai Neung Jaan krub/ka"  (เอาผัดไทยหนึ่งจาน) - "I'd like one order for Pad Thai, please"

       "Ao Pad Thai Goong Sod krub/ka"  (เอาผัดไทยกุ้งสด) - "I'd like Pad Thai with fresh shrimp, please"



- Try the phrases and give a comment feedback -

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