1. Watch How Your Food Is Handled
One of the biggest advantages of eating street food is you can see it being cooked in front of you. Use this to your benefit. Are the ingredients stored safely? Is the cook handling both food and money without washing hands? Are flies buzzing around raw meat? If something feels off, trust your instincts and move on—there are plenty of delicious, safer options nearby.
2. Follow the Locals: Long Lines Mean Fresh Food
A stall packed with locals is a great sign. It usually means the food is not only tasty, but also has a high turnover, which reduces the risk of eating something that’s been sitting out too long. Avoid empty stalls—especially if you're visiting during local meal times.
3. Don't Fear Messy Tables
Used napkins, plates, and cutlery may look off-putting at first glance, but they often signal that a vendor has just been swamped with hungry customers. In many cases, it just means you’ve found a popular and well-loved food stall. Clean-up usually follows quickly, so don’t let a bit of clutter scare you off.
4. Eat During Local Meal Times
Try to time your food outings with Thai breakfast (around 8 AM), lunch (12–1 PM), and dinner (6–8 PM). Eating outside these windows may mean you get leftovers that have been sitting out—giving bacteria plenty of time to grow.
5. Be Cautious with Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit is a must-try in Thailand, but only eat fruits that can be peeled—like mangoes, bananas, mangosteens, or coconuts. Skip pre-cut or raw fruits from open displays unless you’re confident they’ve been washed and prepared hygienically.
6. Respect the Spice
Thailand is famous for its bold, spicy flavours—but what locals consider "mild" might blow your head off. If you're not used to spicy food, start with low spice levels and ease into it. Your stomach will thank you.
7. Choose Piping Hot Food
Hot food is usually safe food. If your meal isn’t steaming or sizzling, ask the vendor to reheat or cook it more thoroughly—especially for meat and seafood dishes. Avoid anything lukewarm.
8. Use Hand Sanitiser Before You Eat
Street food safety starts with your own hygiene. Carry hand sanitiser or wipes, especially if you’re eating with your hands or grabbing food to go.
9. Communicate Food Allergies Clearly
If you have allergies, learn how to say them in Thai or bring a card with the translated message. Many street vendors don’t speak English and may not fully understand dietary restrictions unless clearly communicated.
10. Pick Vendors That Focus on One or Two Dishes
Many Thai street vendors specialise in a single dish or a small selection, and that’s usually a good sign. It means they’re buying ingredients fresh and using them up quickly. Avoid vendors with massive menus—those ingredients may be sitting around too long.
11. Skip Condiments That Look Old
Thai street food stalls often have condiment stations. While these can elevate your meal, avoid anything that looks dusty, crusty, or barely used. If the locals are piling on the sauce, it’s probably fine—otherwise, play it safe.
12. Start Small
Even with all the precautions, everyone’s digestive system reacts differently. Begin with smaller portions and simpler dishes to ease into the street food scene. Better yet, join a street food tour with a knowledgeable guide to get the best and safest start to your culinary adventure.
Final Thoughts
Eating Thai street food is one of the most authentic and unforgettable ways to experience the culture. With just a little knowledge and common sense, you can dive into the vibrant flavours and rich culinary traditions without worry. At Otao Kitchen, we’re passionate about exploring world cuisines—so if this inspires your next trip or cooking class, come join us for a taste of Thailand in Melbourne before your adventure!