How to find cheap food in Thailand – For epicurean adventures at a fraction of the cost

Though, food is an essential part of life, let alone when you travel and holiday at a brand new destination on your bucket list, one needs to guard against overly investing by spending time at Michelin-star restaurants. On the flip side and when in a nation such as Thailand, one will be met with numerous opportunities to mix and match! Provided is a guide on how you can locate affordable, tasty food in Thailand.

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Save money by eating street food

A good and wise way to not burn holes in your pockets is to stick solely to the bustling streets of Thailand. With narrow lanes and neon-light-filled paths to traverse, one will be led towards busy stalls, food carts and friendly locals who will leave no stone unturned in serving up flavoursome bursts. With a reduced risk of catching the odd stomach bug, this form of eating will see to it that you are in a prime position to savour household names that continue to be well-received among Thais and foreigners.

Where should you go to?

First up are the walking streets which are in actuality, your ‘run of the mill’ type marketplaces which are closed off at a certain point in the day to make way for pedestrians and importantly, enthused foodies with yearnings for all things exotic, creative and authentic. Moreover, as made in the reference above, the food markets cannot be missed out on for you will have a better chance of munching on and polishing off aromatic fare that is made with tried and tested recipes. Generally, these establishments are centrally located which will cater to holidaymakers and their fancies. Also, you can place your order, collect the same and settle down at a table and begin to dig in. On the flip side, street carts are a popular draw, especially if you’re fond of sweet and sticky snacks and the odd fruit juice that will afford you that added dose of energy to take with you as you travel along on your merry way. Even if you wish to beat the heat for a bit inside a fancy restaurant, then nothing should stop you from continuing. With some research, you can find a decent restaurant that will only have you paying between 50 – 70 Baht per meal. On the subject of restaurants in Koh Samui, such as those within luxury properties such as Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, you can easily find something to suit your cravings for the day for a reasonable price.

Stick to your budget

Skipping meals is never recommended but eating light now and again can be looked at. For instance, a Western breakfast will incur a cost of between 100 – 200 Baht while if you opt for a local breakfast comprising noodles and curries, then you will not be seen paying anything more than in the range of 30 – 60 Baht. As an alternative, one can also have fresh fruit and wash it all down with a cuppa coffee for a fee between 50 – 60 Baht. Also, some Pad Thai and a bottle of water will have you paying a mere 60 Baht while a toasted cheese sandwich and water will incur a cost of around 150 Baht. For dinner, the combination of pizza and coke will come for 200 Baht. Further, if you want a good Thai green curry and a bottle of coke, then expect to pay 100 Baht and nothing more. 

General advice

When in Thailand, do as the locals do and stick to Thai delicacies as opposed to spending money on Western food and fancy restaurants. Additionally, when you encounter scenes made up of plastic chairs and tables, understand that you are an order away from the very best of Thailand’s food culture.