Bangkok’s street food scene is chaotic, bustling and saturated with sensation. And we mean it in the best possible way. In fact, Thailand, as a nation, is so full of salty, creamy, and spicy flavors that it can be downright difficult to know where to go and what to bite into next. But if you need to focus on this food storm, look no further than chef Jay Fai, who has all the answers to where you should dine next and what exactly to order.

The long-time street food icon, known for always sporting a pretty cool Mad Max look complete with oversized black ski goggles, is the mastermind behind this Michelin-starred street food restaurant. Raan Jay Fai. Diners flock from all over the world to sample its mouth-watering dishes, including the crab omelette which Michelin calls “simply unprecedented.”

And while her cuisine is undoubtedly some of the most sought-after in the country (and, frankly, the world), Fai has other places she likes to recommend to travelers on their Thailand vacation (because, even culinary legends need a break from their own cooking every once in a while). Lucky for you, Fai was kind enough to reveal the secrets of where she goes when she feels like letting someone else do all the work. Here are the flavors and places Fai thinks you should try next in Thailand.

Travel + Leisure: What is your favorite food city in Thailand, and why?

Jay Fai: “I love the diverse range of Thai chili pastes from each region of Thailand as each one is unique. My favorite dish is fish and vegetables boiled with Thai chili paste. I could eat this every day without never get bored. Besides, it’s healthy. Besides Thai food, I also enjoy Japanese and Korean food, especially grilled meats, I like to explore and try dishes from different stores and restaurants.

Is there a hidden food destination that most travelers to Thailand don’t know about?

“Kung Ten Ung Jua Kee Restaurant in Pathum Thani Province is a hidden gem that I have been visiting for over a decade. It is an old shop that offers some of my favorite dishes, which are increasingly difficult to find these days I also like to dine at Kung Ten Ung Jua Kee country restaurants, like these restaurants in wooden houses in Suphanburi, which serve dishes using local natural ingredients like grilled fish. and shrimp from rivers and canals Even though I don’t remember the names of these places, I still miss their flavors.

What is the number one Thai street food that visitors must try?

“Prik name (Thai chili paste) is a must. Thai food is generally delicious, but I recommend choosing a restaurant with a long-time chef. Frequent chef changes can affect food consistency. In the restaurants I frequent, I can immediately tell if the chef has changed because the taste will be different. »

What mistake do visitors make when dining out in Bangkok – and how can they avoid it?

“I advise visitors to be patient with locals due to potential language barriers. Learning a little about Thai culture can be very helpful. Thai people are kind and welcoming, so be patient with us. We are always happy to host visitors.”

What is your favorite meal at home?

“My favorite dish is mackerel chili paste with lots of vegetables. When I have time, I make a stew of mixed vegetables and minced salted roast chicken to eat with hot rice porridge. Most of my dishes Favorites are dishes that I learned to prepare and eat while living with my parents. I also like to prepare boiled soups, such as bitter melon, radish and pumpkin with chicken. usually prepares a large pot so that everyone in the family can sit down and eat together.

When you’re not cooking or at your own restaurant, where do you go to eat in Bangkok?

“In Bangkok, I prefer simple Thai restaurants like Baan Ice Creamwhere I often order Thai chili paste and southern Thai dishes.