Ayutthaya offers a delightful range of traditional Thai dishes that reflect the city’s rich history and cultural influences. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Ayutthaya:
1. Boat Noodles (Kuay Teow Reua)
- Why Try It: This dish is a local specialty, traditionally served in small bowls. It features rice noodles in a flavorful broth, often with beef or pork, and topped with herbs and spices.
- What Makes It Special: The noodles are served in a rich, spicy broth with an option to add meatballs, organs, and a variety of garnishes. It’s believed to have originated in Ayutthaya, served to boat traders along the river.
2. Ayutthaya Roti Sai Mai
- Why Try It: Known as the “Ayutthaya cotton candy,” this sweet treat consists of a thin, pancake-like roti filled with colorful, fluffy strands of sugar, similar to cotton candy.
- What Makes It Special: The roti is soft and delicate, and the sweetness comes from the freshly spun sugar, making it a fun and sugary snack for all ages.
3. Sukhothai Noodles
- Why Try It: Though originating from Sukhothai, this noodle dish is widely popular in Ayutthaya. It features thin noodles in a clear, light broth with vegetables, meat, and peanuts.
- What Makes It Special: The dish is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory, and it’s often garnished with a hard-boiled egg and fresh herbs.
4. Grilled River Prawns
- Why Try It: Ayutthaya is known for its fresh river prawns, which are often grilled and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
- What Makes It Special: The prawns are tender, smoky, and full of flavor. Pairing them with a tangy sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood.
5. Khao Siew
- Why Try It: Khao Siew is a Thai-style curry served with rice and often includes chicken or beef. It’s a hearty dish perfect for a filling lunch.
- What Makes It Special: The curry is rich, flavorful, and a little spicy, with a creamy coconut milk base that makes it comforting and satisfying.
6. Pad Thai
- Why Try It: Though a national dish, Pad Thai in Ayutthaya is unique, often served with river prawns or local fish.
- What Makes It Special: The combination of stir-fried rice noodles with tamarind, fish sauce, peanuts, and lime gives this dish a delicious balance of sour, salty, and savory flavors.
7. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
- Why Try It: A popular Thai dessert made of sticky rice topped with ripe mango and drizzled with sweet coconut milk.
- What Makes It Special: The combination of creamy coconut milk with the sweetness of the mango and the chewy texture of the sticky rice makes for an irresistible dessert.
8. Thai Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla)
- Why Try It: These deep-fried fish cakes are made from fish paste mixed with red curry paste, herbs, and spices, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
- What Makes It Special: The crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior are perfect for a light snack or appetizer, with a satisfying balance of flavors.
9. Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang)
- Why Try It: Gai Yang is a popular Thai dish where chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection.
- What Makes It Special: The marinade, which typically includes garlic, lemongrass, and turmeric, gives the chicken a fragrant and savory flavor, and it’s often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
10. Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen)
- Why Try It: A refreshing, sweet beverage made with strongly brewed black tea, sweetened condensed milk, and ice.
- What Makes It Special: The rich, sweet flavor of the tea combined with the creamy milk makes it a favorite drink to enjoy while exploring the city, especially during the hot months.
Ayutthaya's food scene offers a mix of savory, sweet, and spicy dishes that reflect the city’s cultural heritage. Be sure to try these local specialties for an authentic taste of Ayutthaya!
