One dish that hasn't really made it over to the US yet* is one that I was introduced to last year when my sister and I were in Chiang Mai at the end of the summer: khao soi. It is sheer amazingness. If you've ever had pho, it's similar - but it's a hundred times better, IMO. I love pho, but khao soi takes it to a whole new level.
Here's a picture of the khao soi that's served at a restaurant which has quickly become one of my sister's and my favorite places to eat in Chiang Mai ("Just Khao Soy"):
The soup has pieces of chicken and rice noodles in a light curry, with crispy rice noodles on top. Then you can choose what else you want to add to it: coconut milk (YES), pickled onions (surprisingly tasty), chili paste, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and fresh lime. There's also a few slices of banana to help dull the spiciness, if you need them. You can add as little or as much as you want, to taste. It is absolutely wonderful. The original dish comes from Northern Thailand and Laos. It's is less fancy than this, and is apparently regarded as mere "street food" by many Thai people. But the restaurant version at least is wonderful, and I hope it does become more widely available outside of Southeast Asia!
Another item of Thai cuisine one should not miss when one is in Thailand is their version of limeade. It's like lemonade, except with lime, and a little bit of sugar and a little bit of salt. The balance of flavors is delightful - and something that Thais strive for in their cuisine. I had some with my khao soi at lunch today. Perfect. The only way to have made the meal even better would have been to finish off with mango and sticky rice for dessert. If I'd had any room left, I would have ordered some! But there'll be plenty of time for that while we're here.
*One of my favorite Thai restaurants back home, Bai Tong, does list khai soi on the menu, but I haven't had it so I can't speak to its authenticity or tastiness. I'm sure it's quite good, though, since Bai Tong is excellent!
