Asia eating guide
South-East Asia is defined as much by its cuisine as its beaches and natural beauty. From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll realise that this is a continent that is always looking forward to its next meal. Everything you put in your mouth is a riot of flavour thanks to an abundance of fresh, local produce, so dive straight in – Asia has a foodie reputation for a very good reason.
Thailand might be best known for its curries, but you’ll also find exquisite seafood along its coastlines, and more delicately spiced dishes. Street food is a way of life in Thailand, and you can spot locals convening over a plate of something delicious at the hawker stalls that congregate in town and city centres. The condiments that appear on every table – sliced green chillies in white vinegar, fish sauce, dried red chilli and white sugar – reflect the classic Thai flavours: hot, sour, salty and sweet.
Elsewhere, the cuisine is no less mouth-watering. In Vietnam, a steaming hot bowl of pho – an unctuous noodle broth – is as comforting as food gets. In Malaysia and neighbouring Borneo, rice and noodles rule, to soak up the rich coconut-milk curries, such as beef rendang, as an accompaniment to seafood or as the base for delicious, spicy soups. And in Laos, the cuisine has many interesting influences, most noticeably in Vientiane, where the French legacy has spawned an unmissable dining experience: restaurants serving exquisite French cuisine with a Lao twist.
Cambodian cuisine is one of Asia’s best-kept secrets, with insanely good seafood found along the coast (although inland river fish are more popular). Probably the best-known of the local dishes is fish amok, steamed, curried river fish cooked with tamarind, coconut and a variety of spices.
Where to start? Our advice is to try absolutely everything and anything. Speak to your guide about traditional delicacies, and watch out for the spots that are popular with the locals – a sure sign that something tasty is on the menu.
Whilst tourist restaurants serve a very high standard of cuisine, you’ll often discover some of the finest dishes in small, local restaurants, where the setting might not be luxurious – think plastic stools for seating – but dishes will rarely set you back more than a dollar.
All Selective Asia clients are provided with access to our own dining guides before departure, listing our personal favourites and some top tips when it comes to eating out in Asia.