Tell them 'mai phet' (not spicy) upfront. 'Phet nit noi' means a little. 'Phet mak' = very spicy. Servers will give you tourist-level spice if you say nothing.
🍜Shared dishes, Thai-style
Thai meals are family-style. Order 2–3 dishes for 2 people with rice. Don't order individual dishes expecting a full plate.
💳Cash vs card
Street food and local spots: cash only. Malls and hotels: card OK. 1,000 baht bills not always broken at street stalls — carry 20–100 baht notes.
🕐Peak hours
Bangkok lunch rush is 12–1:30pm, dinner 6:30–8pm. Arrive 15 min before for top spots. Most good street food closes by 9pm.
🪑No reservations (mostly)
Most local places don't take reservations. High-end spots do — book through their website or Line app. Walk-in wait at popular spots is 15–30 min.
🐾Street dogs at stalls
Normal to see dogs near street stalls. They're generally harmless and fed by vendors. Don't worry — the food prep area stays clean.