Must-Try Menu in Thailand (2nd Tier)

Best Overall 2nd-Tier Thai Dish

Sweet red BBQ pork served with crispy pork, Chinese sausage, egg, and thick gravy.

Where to find: Street stalls, classic rice shops, food courts

Avg price: 45–70 THB

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Ultra-Tender Pork with Rich Aromatic Gravy

Slow-braised pork leg served with pickled mustard greens and a soy-based broth.

Where to find: Street food, old-town stalls, night markets

Avg price: 50–80 THB

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Most Unique Flavor

A pink-colored noodle soup made from fermented tofu, seafood, and veggies — sweet, sour, and savory.

Where to find: Noodle shops, street vendors

Avg price: 40–70 THB

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Best Noodle Dish in 2nd-Tier Category

Wok-fried wide rice noodles with dark soy sauce and Chinese broccoli.

Where to find: Street wok shops (gaan pad), restaurants

Avg price: 40–70 THB

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Smooth, Comforting, Savory

Soft noodles drenched in a thick gravy with pork, chicken, or seafood.

Where to find: Noodle shops, food courts

Avg price: 40–75 THB

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Crispy Upgrade to Thai Chicken Rice

Crispy fried chicken over garlic rice served with chili dipping sauce.

Where to find: Chicken rice shops, street stalls

Avg price: 45–70 THB

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Best Cheap Thai Dish

Crispy Thai-style omelette served over rice — simple but incredibly satisfying.

Where to find: Everywhere — street stalls, food courts, local restaurants

Avg price: 30–50 THB

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Best Mild Soup

A creamy coconut-based broth with galangal, lemongrass, herbs, and tender chicken.

Where to find: Thai restaurants, street food areas

Avg price: 60–120 THB

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Most Popular Spicy Salad

Papaya salad available in mild versions or fiery Isaan fermented-fish style.

Where to find: Isaan restaurants, markets

Avg price: 40–70 THB

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Herbal, Spicy, Addictive

Minced pork mixed with lime, chili, mint, roasted rice powder, and herbs.

Where to find: Isaan eateries, beer gardens

Avg price: 60–90 THB