Thai · Restaurant Phrases
Thai Restaurant Phrases: What to Say at Every Step
Thai food is one of the world's great cuisines, and eating in Thailand -- from Bangkok street stalls to beachside restaurants in Krabi -- is unforgettable. These Thai phrases will help you order, manage spice levels, and communicate dietary needs. Note: Thai uses gender-specific polite particles -- men say 'khrap' and women say 'kha' at the end of sentences.
Essential Phrases
| Thai | English |
|---|---|
| Khor dto samrap sawng kon khrap/kha | A table for two, please |
| Khor doo meh-noo noi khrap/kha | Can I see the menu, please? |
| Khor sang... | I'd like to order... |
| Gep ngern duay khrap/kha | The check, please |
| Mee tua mai? | Does this contain nuts? |
| Nae-nam a-rai dee? | What do you recommend? |
| A-roi mak | Very delicious |
| Mai phet khrap/kha | Not spicy, please |
| Phae... | I'm allergic to... |
| Phet noi | A little bit spicy |
Cultural Notes
Thai Dining Culture
Thai meals are shared family-style. Rather than everyone ordering their own dish, the table orders several dishes to share. Rice (khao) is the centrepiece of every meal. Street food is an essential part of Thai dining -- it is safe, delicious, and incredibly affordable.
Tipping is not traditional in Thailand, but it has become common in tourist areas. At restaurants, leaving 20-50 baht or the change from the bill is appreciated. At street stalls and food courts, tipping is not expected. High-end restaurants may add a 10% service charge.
Thai food is renowned for its spiciness, which can catch travellers off guard. Use mai phet (not spicy) or phet noi (a little spicy) when ordering. Thais are accommodating and will adjust spice levels. Note that 'a little spicy' by Thai standards may still be intense for Western palates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip at restaurants in Thailand?
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. At sit-down restaurants, leaving 20-50 baht or the change is common. Street food vendors don't expect tips. High-end restaurants may add a service charge.
How do I manage spice levels in Thai food?
Say 'mai phet' (not spicy) or 'phet noi' (a little spicy). Thai 'medium spicy' can be very hot for most Westerners. Don't be embarrassed to ask for mild -- Thais are used to adjusting for foreigners.
Is Thai street food safe to eat?
Yes, Thai street food is generally safe and is eaten by locals every day. Choose stalls that are busy (high turnover means fresh food), have visible cooking (you can see preparation), and serve hot food cooked to order.
What does 'khrap' and 'kha' mean?
'Khrap' is the polite particle used by men, and 'kha' is used by women. Adding these to the end of sentences makes your speech polite. Thais appreciate foreigners who use them.