Thais place great importance on the appearance of their food. Even simple dishes are often accompanied by elaborate decorations made of fresh fruits and vegetables, carved into fanciful shapes. Carving—the art of carving fruit and vegetables—originates from Thailand.
Table etiquette
How should you behave when eating a main meal?
Thais are a nation that uses chopsticks, but also spoons and forks for eating. However, you won't encounter knives; they are viewed as weapons, and according to etiquette, you should sit at the table peacefully. Chopsticks are most often used when eating noodles. In other situations, a fork and spoon are served with meals, but the fork is only used to place food on the spoon, which you then use to bring the bite to your mouth. Eating directly with a fork is frowned upon – it's a major no-no in Thailand. Furthermore, the spoon must be held in the right hand, and the fork in the left! Left-handed people have a harder time, but they must be careful because Thais place great importance on putting food into the mouth with the right hand; the left is considered unclean and used for "other purposes."
Cultural differences can be enormous, and innocent gestures can mean completely different things – remember this when traveling to Thailand. Familiarize yourself with the rules at the table and while eating, and you'll have no trouble enjoying Thailand. This is worth knowing, especially since mealtime is a very important part of the day for Thais!
Thais place great importance on the appearance of their food. Even simple dishes are often accompanied by elaborate decorations made of fresh fruits and vegetables, carved into fanciful shapes. Carving—the art of carving fruit and vegetables—originates from Thailand.
Table etiquette
How should you behave when eating a main meal?
Thais are a nation that uses chopsticks, but also spoons and forks for eating. However, you won't encounter knives; they are viewed as weapons, and according to etiquette, you should sit at the table peacefully. Chopsticks are most often used when eating noodles. In other situations, a fork and spoon are served with meals, but the fork is only used to place food on the spoon, which you then use to bring the bite to your mouth. Eating directly with a fork is frowned upon – it's a major no-no in Thailand. Furthermore, the spoon must be held in the right hand, and the fork in the left! Left-handed people have a harder time, but they must be careful because Thais place great importance on putting food into the mouth with the right hand; the left is considered unclean and used for "other purposes."