ผัดกะเพรา
Pad Kra Pao
"A spicy, fragrant stir-fry of minced meat and holy basil, widely considered by locals to be the 'true' national dish of Thailand."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Spicy and Authentic
Duration
30 minutes
Best For
Local favorite
The Backstory
A cornerstone of 'Aharn Tam Sang' (made-to-order) culture, it grew in popularity as a fast, savory lunch for the city's working class.
Local Secret
"Always order it with a 'Kai Dao' (crispy fried egg) to balance the salt and heat; ask for 'Phet Nit Noi' if you aren't ready for serious spice."