What Not To Eat In Bangkok: A Culinary Revelation of Regrets
This article is your guide to what not to indulge in while exploring the culinary landscape of Bangkok. Thailand’s capital city is a gastronomic paradise, but not every dish joins the feast to excite your taste buds. Some can stir your stomach rather uncomfortably.
In an overview, notwithstanding the mouthwatering Thai cuisine, there are indeed some food items visitors should approach with caution. Maybe they are not custom-fit for foreign palates or might be consumed poorly – leading to some uncomfortable moments in the ‘City of Angels.’ This guide delves into the whirlpool of culinary flavors, with particular focus on the aspects to avoid when dining out in Bangkok.
Avoid Uncooked Street Food
The luring scents wafting through the busy sois may make you dive straight into Bangkok’s street food scene. However, slow down and navigate your gastronomic adventure wisely. A caveat you must be aware of; the danger lurks in the ‘uncooked’ side of street eats. Notorious for causing ‘traveler’s tummy,’ dishes such as ‘som tam’ (raw papaya salad) and ‘larb’ (minced meat salad) that include raw and potentially unclean elements should be consumed with caution.
The Anti-raw Attitude
Plunging your palate into raw street food is like playing culinary roulette – the risk is high and the spoils, often underwhelming. Though drool-worthy, the risks associated with uncooked delights soaring in hygiene issues simply outweigh the tastes they tempt your taste buds with.
Steer Clear from Unclean Water
No dish in Bangkok, scrumptious as it might be, is worth falling ill for. A common mistake travelers make is disregarding the quality of water used in preparations. It might seem like an innocent mistake, but dining at eateries that use tap water in their cooking can lead to unpleasant reminiscences of your vacation.
The Fear of The Faucet
Residents might be acclimatized to tap water, but it can harbor bacteria that foreign stomachs are often not prepared for. It’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid places that use tap water in dishes, even if boiled.
Avoid Low-Quality Seafood
Bangkok’s culinary scene is incomplete without its myriad seafood options. However, as seductive as an affordable plate of shrimps may be, cheap seafood often comes with a price. Be cautious of stalls selling seafood at exceedingly low prices or spots where you can’t see what you’re actually getting.
The Shellfish Scare
Cheap, unregulated seafood lurking around Bangkok’s corners is like a beautiful mirage – enticing at first, but a source of regret soon after. You won’t want to remember the ‘City of Angels’ by the grimace on your face after a plaintive plate of shellfish.
Conclusion
Navigating through the culinary scene of Bangkok can be an unforgettable dining experience if done right. With a touch of caution and awareness, you can steer clear from the dubious delights and embrace the true treasures of Thai cuisine. Remember, the guiding mantra is to put quality over convenience and price. Don’t let the fear of what could go wrong deter your culinary adventurism, but do approach with a cautious palate.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it safe to eat street food in Bangkok?
While street food in Bangkok is popular amongst tourists, it’s best to be cautious. Opt for cooked food from clean, busy stalls where food turnover is high.
2. Can tap water in Bangkok make me sick?
Yes, it can. Visitors are usually advised to stick to bottled water and avoid places that use tap water in their dishes to prevent foodborne illnesses.
3. What seafood should I avoid in Bangkok?
If a seafood dish seems suspiciously cheap, it’s probably best to avoid it. Go for reputable restaurants and markets where hygiene standards are likely higher.
4. Can I eat raw salad on the streets of Bangkok?
It’s advisable to avoid raw salads from street vendors, as they could contain unclean ingredients that might upset your stomach.
5. Do I need to be wary of any fruit or juices?
Fruits are generally safe, but opt for ones you can peel yourself. Be cautious with juices as they may contain tap water or unclean ice.
The wisdom to discern the good from the not-so-good edibles in Bangkok will ensure you return from your trip with only pleasant, flavorful memories. Be an informed foodie, and savour each bite with reassurance in the City of the Gastronomic Delights.
