The name Bangkok is pretty much synonymous with street food. Talk to anyone who has a working knowledge of Southeast Asia, and they’ll know that this vibrant city is renowned for its incredible markets, unique food (and drink) offerings, and a not-so-great phenomenon known as “Bangkok Belly.”

As a self-proclaimed food adventurer, I’m always up for trying something at least once. With Imodium and charcoal tablets tucked inside my day pack, I explored two large local markets in Bangkok, trying all types of cuisine. From the spicy exotic to the umami comfort foods to the absolutely delicious fruit smoothies, my memories of this Thai city are multi-sensory. Now that I am back in the U.S. and the closest Asian market is 30 miles away, I day dream of Bangkok’s street food and how it absolutely 100% lives up to the hype.

Sai Tai Center Night Market

One of the perks to staying in hostels is that there is a community of travelers who are typically up for trying new things, and it’s not unusual to meet someone and then immediately go exploring before even knowing their name. A local Thai woman who worked at my hostel organized a trip to Sai Tai, which was a great experience for my first full day in Southeast Asia. A food journey within an eclectic group of strangers? Count me in.

And oh, the smells! And the sights! The heat was still oppressive, but it was slowly dissipating as the evening progressed. When we first arrived, it took about 20 minutes just to acclimate to the beautiful sensory overload around me. I watched the heat emanating off of grills, with flickers of flames rising up periodically. I listened to the sound of blenders as icy fruit drinks were being churned up for thirsty customers. I marveled at the sweets, row upon row of glistening sugar treats that were unlike anything I had ever seen Stateside.

The local gal from the hostel gathered everyone near a dessert stand and we tried sweet potato balls. There was a long line of Thai people waiting for these unassuming balls-on-sticks, but they were worth the wait. Slightly sweet, fried like a donut, and surprisingly fluffy.

Next, I wandered around, seeing what type of food would strike my fancy. I spotted a fresh meat kabob (pork?) and snagged that for about $.075 USD. It was juicy, with a lovely balance of spicy and sweet. The grilled pineapple and pepper provided an enjoyable crunch.

I sampled some roasted bugs as well! A friendly vendor delicately spooned three crispy insects into my palm. They smelled vaguely like dirt and cooking oil, but it wasn’t a unpleasant smell. I convinced some of my new hostel friends to try them with me. Cheers, and then down the hatch. It tasted like those veggie stick chips.

I then saw someone carrying a yummy-looking bowl of some stir-fried rice with an egg on top. I back-tracked until I found the source and decided to get this savory dish as my main course. It was phenomenal, but, for the life of me, I can’t adequately describe it – the flavors and spices were too unique and unlike anything else I’ve ever had.

By 10 pm, my body was exhausted and my belly was full. Back at the hostel, I was already making mental plans to visit other Bangkok markets to get the full experience of Thai street food.

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

There are lots of floating markets in and around Bangkok, and many of these are tourist traps that lack the authenticity of the genuine culture. Once again, staying at a hostel had its benefits, because I was able to go with a small group of fellow travelers to a neighborhood floating market that truly catered to the Thai people and Thai palette.

It was midday and hot. I embraced the sweat dripping off of every part of my body as I explored in and around the stalls, slowing down ever so slightly when I walked by a big fan or an ice-laden display.

And then I decided to buy hot soup for lunch. I know, a seemingly ridiculous idea, but I was told that boat noodles was a must-try dish while in Bangkok.

I was not disappointed.

Boat noodles were traditionally sold to the canal boats floating within the waterway system of Bangkok. Nowadays, boat noodles can be procured far away from any waterfront, but at the Khlong Lat Mayom market, they are rather famous. I spotted one vendor who had a long line, so I waited patiently while watching the boats float by. I chose my noodles (flat, rice) and watched as they built my bowl, adding some mystery meat into the broth.

It was such a rich, herb-y flavor, made even better by the dollop of red sauce I added. I slurped, I chewed, I relished the flavors of this unique dish that tasted like a warm hug.

Afterwards, I chugged a cold diet coke and joined a group on a boat ride in the canal. I sat back and let the breeze cool me off. Another A+ Bangkok food adventure that I know I’ll always remember.

There were other things I tried while in Thailand: pad thai, pad see ew, som tam, tom yum soup, and so many other little bites of things I didn’t actually know the name of.

If you’re an adventurous spirit who enjoys exploring new tastes and textures, Bangkok has a lot to offer!