Bangkok is a culinary playground where exotic flavours come to life, offering a diverse range of unique dishes that captivate the senses. Bangkok provides endless opportunities to step outside the comfort zone and try foods that are both exotic and deeply rooted in Thai culture. For food lovers seeking new experiences, the city promises a journey through some of the most intriguing and memorable tastes.
Bamboo Worms, Rot Duan
Often considered a gateway to Thailand’s unique food scene, bamboo worms are the most beginner-friendly fried insect for tourists looking to explore unique local cuisine. This delicacy, often referred to as “express train” due to its shape, has a distinctive appearance. Its spongy yet crunchy texture makes it both fascinating and easy to try for first-timers.
Silk Worms, Nhon Mhai
In addition to bamboo worms, another Thailand’s unique delicacy is the silk worm, or silk larvae, known locally as ‘Nhon Mhai.’ A favourite among drinkers, silk larvae are often considered one of the top exotic foods in Thailand by tourists who have sampled various local delicacies.
Grasshoppers, Tak Ka Tan
For those unfamiliar, Thai fried grasshoppers, also called ‘Tak Ka Tan,’ are said by locals and tourists to taste strikingly similar to fried shrimp, with the perfect pairing being a cold beer. This exotic Thai dish offers a crunchier texture than any chip you’ve tasted, enhanced by a seasoning of chili, Thai pepper powder, and Golden Mountain sauce. Although you won’t find these in the top restaurants in Bangkok, they are easily found on most street vendors near places like the Pathumwan Princess Hotel.
Growing Tadpoles, Mok Huak
Mok Huak, or developing tadpoles, is a distinctive yet familiar dish in Thailand. Grilled in banana leaves with fermented fish sauce, they are flavoured with herbs and spices to tone down their pungent aroma. While rare on menus outside of Thailand, tadpoles are also not commonly found year-round in the country, as they are only available during the rainy season.
