If you’ve never had Thai food, you may be unsure about what to expect. From pad kee mao to tom yum and curry, Thai cuisine is full of unique flavors and distinct ingredients. Here are four interesting facts about Thai food to know before you try it.

4 Interesting Facts About Thai Food 

1. Eat With a Spoon

Forks and knives aren’t used at the table as frequently in Asia as they are in North America and Europe. Thai people usually use chopsticks for noodle dishes and eat everything else with a spoon. Most meals can be easily scooped, and if you use chopsticks, it’s customary to leave them in the bottom of the bowl when you’re finished.

2. There’s a Chinese Influence

When Chinese immigrants settled in Thailand, they brought their culture with them, including cuisine. Thai food is unique and contains many ingredients native to the country; however, you’ll find staples of Chinese cooking intermingled within the dishes, such as soy sauce and rice.

3. Not Everything Is Spicy

Thai food is known for its kick, and some dishes bring the heat with a combination of chili peppers, ginger, peppercorn, and garlic. However, not everything is spicy. In most Thai restaurants, you’ll have an option to choose how spicy you’d like your meal, and if you don’t like spice at all, inquire about milder options. Sugar is in almost every Thai recipe, so many dishes are more sweet or savory than spicy.

4. It’s Not All Vegetarian

Thai cuisine has plenty of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. However, not everything is vegetarian. Although these types of dishes are plentiful in Bangkok and American restaurants, meat is central to many Thai recipes. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan eating in Thailand, ask for jay, which means Buddhist vegan food.

If you’re craving Thai food on Oahu, visit Thailand Cuisine 2 in Kahului, HI. With a reputation for bright flavors and fresh ingredients, this locally owned restaurant serves authentic, homemade Thai cuisine, including yum nuer, panang curry, and gaiyang. Dedicated to customer service, they also offer vegetarian dishes as well as take-out options. View their menu online, or call (808) 873-0225 to make a reservation.