Using good table manners in Thailand and observing proper food etiquette are pretty much just a matter of common sense: Don’t talk with your mouth full, don’t point with your fork, and so on.
Only a few rules of table etiquette in Thailand differ from those in the West.
In Thailand, cooking and eating the world-famous cuisine is taken quite seriously. But Thai people are typically fun and easy-going when it comes to socializing.
As a guest, your accidental infractions at the table will be forgiven. Mealtimes are often rowdy, informal affairs with talk, drinks, and laughter. Relax and enjoy the cultural exchange!
All group meals in Thailand are shared; don’t plan to order your own food. Per custom, the senior ladies at the table will pick and choose dishes to fit the group.
Several types of meat and fish may be represented along with some different vegetables. If there’s something you want to try, ask the person ordering about it and they may get the “hint.”
There won’t be knives on the table, or anywhere outside of the kitchen for that matter; food should already be in bite-sized pieces. If you need to cut food smaller, use the edge of your spoon to cut it, resorting to the fork only if necessary.
