First of all, Jan and Dhem were so kind, wonderful, and warm. They were so accommodating with all of us, our spice level preferences, and even went out of their way to get us raincoats because we'd left the hotel without an umbrella.
Most tourists tend to opt out of street food options because of several things, like the language barrier or even the concern about how the food is prepared, so they miss out on the actual culinary backbone of a country. I was exhilarated to be able to really step into alleyways, small streets, and sit at plastic chairs with new friends and the love of my life to experience the homey, warm, and delicious flavors Thailand is beloved for. All in such an authentic, delicious, puddle-jumping experience.
The food was incredibly delicious at every junction and the spots we ate at were all well-spaced and offered great variety. At some point we were moving as a group down a huge street flooded with neon lights for some delicious sesame mochi, other times we had to duck single-file into the most cramped alleys to get to the best-tasting papaya salad I have ever had the joy of eating. My boyfriend said it best when he said to the group that Jan and Dhem successfully brought us to spaces a lot of us, especially as tourists, wouldn't dare venture into alone.
Despite the rain and the occasional stop to wait for other diners to file out, the entire process and experience was completely enchanting. I was warmed by the food, the company, and the hospitality of our guides, as well as how they were able to get everyone in the group to relax and enjoy each other's company. So glad to have heard about this experience and eaten some of the best food I've had the pleasure of eating--all outside of the scope of sit-down restaurants that wouldn't have given you the same sort of feeling.
Favorite dishes:
- Som Tam salad (spicy/sour papaya salad)
- Khanom Buang dessert (crepe/crispy pancake with coconut cream marshmallow-esque in it and egg yolk on top)
- Pa Tong Go donut with pandan cream (so good!)
- Khao Ka Moo (stewed pork knuckle with rice)
Would 100000% recommend this tour, it was amazing and such a wonderful experience! Jan and Dhem are incredible guides, know much, speak excellent English, ad will accommodate your tastes, allergies, etc.
