Phitsanulok Province Thailand Travel Guide
Phitsanulok cuisine blends Northern and Central Thai influences, with a focus on fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and various spices.
Rice is the staple, accompanying curries, stir-fries, and roasted meats. The Nan River supplies fresh freshwater fish, a common ingredient. The city's historical role as a trading hub also influenced its cuisine-related diversity.
Most rice and noodle dishes are eaten with a spoon and fork. Use the fork to push food onto your spoon. Chopsticks are typical in some cases specific noodle dishes.
Meals are usually communal. Order several dishes to share among everyone at the table, along with a large bowl of rice.
Dining is usually laid-back. Do not feel rushed. Wash hands before eating street food. Avoid nose blowing or burping at the table in polite company.
Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp or fowl, bean sprouts, and peanuts, served with lime.
Found at almost any street stall or local restaurant.
Famous for its perfectly crispy skin and tender meat, usually accompanied by rice or in stir-fries.
A popular choice in various eateries.
The iconic spicy and tangy shrimp soup, a staple of Thai cuisine.
Widely available across local restaurants.
Moo Ping (pork) and Gai Yang (chicken) are popular grilled meats on skewers. Sticky Rice (Khao Niao) often accompanies grilled meats or fresh mango.
Roti (sweet pancake with banana), fresh exotic fruits, Mango Sticky Rice (seasonal), Kanom Krok (coconut-rice pancakes), and Khanom Buang (Thai crepes) are popular.
Limited compared to Bangkok. Some higher-end hotels might feature more structured restaurants offering a elegant dining experience.
Abundant throughout the city, blending authentic Thai cuisine with some Western dishes for a comfortable dining environment.
Excellent options for budget-friendly and real local meals and snacks, found across various markets.
The main evening food hub in Phitsanulok, bursting with a pursuit and food choices.
Open nightly, offering a variety of street food.
Visit for fresh produce, ingredients, and pre-prepared local breakfast items, reflecting local life.
Active from early morning.
Pizza, pasta, burgers available at some restaurants.
A few establishments cater to this group cuisines.
Thai iced tea/coffee, coconut water, regional brews (Chang, Leo, Singha).
Mekhong and SangSom whiskies are popular choices.
Dedicated Halal restaurants are limited. Some Muslim-owned stalls, especially in markets, may have Halal options. It is best to inquire directly.
Inquiring directly is the ideal method.
Finding Kosher food is very difficult. Self-with kitchen facilities or bringing sealed Kosher products is typical for those following strict Kosher diets.
Pre-planning for Kosher meals is recommended.
Use apps for translation like Google Translate (with offline Thai language pack) or pre-printed allergy cards written in Thai.
Non-alcoholic choices: Thai iced tea (Cha Yen), Thai iced coffee (Oliang), fresh coconut water, various fruit shakes and smoothies, and herbal drinks.
Formal cooking classes for tourists are less common than in major hotspots. Inquire at guesthouses or local tourism offices for casual demonstrations or classes.
A self-guided street food tour at the Night Bazaar is easy and highly recommended. Informal local guides may also show you around.
Direct farm visits are not a prominent tourist activity within Phitsanulok city. Agricultural visits occur in the surrounding rural regions of the province.
Certain businesses on the Nan River float, offering a special dining atmosphere.
Experience having meals on the water.
The Night Bazaar is a destination where you can experience the best of local street food culture.
A true culinary journey.
Local markets provide a genuine experience to watch everyday life and get fresh produce.
Ask local residents for their favorite eating areas to discover hidden gems.
The food stalls and riverside dining scenes offer wonderful photo opportunities.
Always check for fresh ingredients at street food stalls. Look for spots with high local traffic for good quality and taste.
