Phitsanulok 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 grilled meats. The Nan River supplies fresh freshwater fish, a common ingredient. The city's historical role as a trading hub also shaped its culinary 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 for some specific noodle dishes.
Meals are often communal. Order several dishes to share among everyone at the table, along with a large bowl of rice.
Dining is generally relaxed. 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 chicken, 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, often served with rice or in stir-fries.
A popular choice in various eateries.
The iconic spicy and sour 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 tropical 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 formal restaurants offering a refined dining experience.
Abundant throughout the city, blending authentic Thai cuisine with some Western dishes for a comfortable dining environment.
Excellent options for affordable and authentic local meals and snacks, found across various markets.
The main evening food hub in Phitsanulok, bursting with activity 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 these cuisines.
Thai iced tea/coffee, coconut water, local beers (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.
Direct inquiry is the best approach.
Finding Kosher food is very difficult. Self-catering or bringing sealed Kosher products is typical for those following strict Kosher diets.
Pre-planning for Kosher meals is recommended.
Use translation apps 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 informal demonstrations or classes.
A self-guided street food tour at the Night Bazaar is simple 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 areas of the province.
Some establishments on the Nan River float, offering a distinctive dining atmosphere.
Experience dining 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 observe daily life and find fresh produce.
Ask local residents for their favorite eating spots 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 places with high local traffic for good quality and taste.
