Sidewalk Dining in Bangkok

All over Bangkok you will find food stalls and street vendors selling a variety of Thai style fast food.

Some of these vendors have a small take away stall, some have a few chairs and tables on the sidewalk and some have carts or bicycles.

The question is whether this food is hygienic. In most cases it is, but occurances of 'Bangkok Belly' are not unheard of.

Usually this is mild and results in diarrhea or an upset stomach. It can, however, be more serious.

Does that mean you should never eat from a food stall in Bangkok?

• No. Check it out.
• Does it look clean?
• Where do they do their dishes? In a pan on the ground with dirty water? Or on a table with clean running water?
• Watch for a few minutes.
• Do you see Thais buying food there?
• Are they people who seem to know the vendor?

So is Bangkok street food safe or isn't it?

It is safe if you exercise caution.