Introduction To Thai Food

While enjoying Thai Cuisine, you might be interested in learning about Thai eating customs. Thai people usually eat together in large groups including family and extended family members. After the Thai food has been prepared, all the dishes are placed on the table in the order of "first done, first served." Appetizers, salads, soups, and main dishes should be eaten together and shared by all members in the group (or family style).

The following are the reasons:

By doing the family style all members will taste the varieties of Thai foods.
When you eat salads, soups, and main dishes together, they will give the better taste to your meal or even cure the spiciness when it gets too spicy. Thus you may sometimes see we serve your meal differently from your traditional restaurant.

Spoon and fork are used when eating Thai food. The spoon is placed in the right hand and a fork in the left. The fork is used to "load" the spoon, which is used as the primary eating utensil. Knives are rarely needed because the pieces of food usually are already small. Chopsticks are not normally used when eating Thai food, but they could be effective in some noodles dishes.

A common misconception is that Thai food is very spicy. It can be if you desire, but does not have to be. Be sure to let the waiter or waitress know what you would prefer.

You will discover a wonderful variety to suit every palate.

The most important thing to remember when eating Thai foods is to enjoy yourself and don't be afraid to try new and different dishes.

We really appreciate your business and we thank you for choosing Tasty Thai.

Common words in Thai Food Menu:

Tom:	Soup, boil
Yum:	Sour and spicy salad
Tom: Yum	Sour and spicy soup
Pahd:	Stir-fried
Gang:	Thick soup (i.e. curry)

Sincerely,
Somkanay "Num" & Wipaporn "Ta" Dechasiri
The Owners of Tasty Thai

Introduction to Thai Food was originally written by Dr. George Farrimond, Jr. of Southern Oregon University and printed on the menu of "House Of Thai Cuisine," Ashland Oregon in 1995.