Thai food is loved around the world for its strong flavors and balance of sweet, sour, spicy and salty. But the dishes you find in Chiang Mai are quite different from what you’ll taste in Phuket. The country’s regional cooking styles are shaped by geography, climate and cultural influences. If you’re visiting a Thai restaurant in Phuket, you might notice the flavors lean more toward heat and richness compared to those from the north.

Northern Thai Food

Northern Thai cuisine, common in cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, tends to be milder and less sweet. The region’s cooler climate and mountainous terrain have shaped a menu full of hearty soups, grilled meats and preserved ingredients. Sticky rice is a staple here, often served in small woven baskets.

You’ll find dishes like khao soi, a creamy curry noodle soup topped with crispy noodles, or sai ua, a spicy herbal sausage made with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Many of the flavors come from fresh herbs rather than fiery chilli. Meals are often shared and include a variety of dipping sauces and relishes.

Southern Thai Food

Down south, the cuisine takes on a bolder, spicier edge. Coconut milk is used more frequently, and seafood plays a major role in many dishes. The tropical climate and access to the sea mean fresh ingredients are always within reach.

Southern dishes often include strong spices, chilli heat and fermented elements. Gaeng tai pla is a famous southern curry made with fermented fish innards, while khua kling is a dry stir-fry packed with spice. Jasmine rice is more common in this region than sticky rice. The food here is known for packing a punch and offering layers of flavor in every bite.

Ingredient Differences

Northern Thai cooking shares influences with neighbouring Laos and Myanmar, while southern cuisine is more influenced by Malay and Muslim food traditions. These differences show up not just in flavor but also in cooking methods and presentation. Coconut, turmeric and seafood are more dominant in the south, while the north favours grilled dishes, herbs and pickled vegetables.

What to Expect in Phuket

In Phuket, you’re likely to find southern-style dishes with bold spices and lots of seafood. Many restaurants in the area also serve classic dishes from other parts of Thailand, giving you the chance to try both styles. A good Thai restaurant will often offer a mix, so you can sample everything from a rich massaman curry to a tangy northern-style tomato dip with vegetables.

Exploring the difference between northern and southern Thai food adds a new layer to the experience of dining in Thailand. Each region brings its own personality to the table, and trying them side by side is a great way to appreciate the country’s rich food culture.