How to Talk About Taste and Food Preferences in Thai

10/15/20251 min read

a wooden table topped with plates of food
a wooden table topped with plates of food

Understanding Taste in Thai Culture

Food is an integral part of Thai culture, and talking about taste is a common way for locals to express their feelings and preferences. Whether it’s a spicy curry or a sweet dessert, discussing food not only reveals preferences but also builds connections. Let’s dive into the nuances of talking about your favorite foods and how to express your tastes in Thai.

Common Phrases to Discuss Taste

Here are some examples to help you chat about your taste and food preferences in both Thai and English. This will equip you with the phrases you need to sound like a local!

  • อร่อยมาก (a-ròi mâak) - Very delicious

  • เผ็ด (pèt) - Spicy

  • หวาน (wăan) - Sweet

  • เค็ม (khem) - Salty

  • เปรี้ยว (bprîao) - Sour

  • มัน (man) - Fatty

  • ขม (khŏm) - Bitter

  • ฉ่ำ (chàm) - Juicy

  • ชอบ (châwp) - Like

  • ไม่ชอบ (mái châwp) - Dislike

  • กลมกล่อม (glom glàwm) - Balanced flavor

  • สด (sòd) - Fresh

  • อร่อยจนต้องขอเติม (a-ròi jon dtɔ̂ng khɔ́ təəm) - So delicious, I need a refill!

    Putting Phrases Into Action

Now that you have these phrases, try incorporating them into your conversations about food with friends or at restaurants. You can comment on the food you are eating, share preferences, or ask others about theirs. Just remember, discussing taste is not just about the food but about connecting and sharing experiences. So, get out there and start chatting!

Ready to bring these Thai phrases to life? 💬


Join me for a fun and friendly conversation practice session, where you can try using these expressions naturally and confidently with guidance and real feedback.