Food History of Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Ayutthaya, Thailand
The Chao Sam Phraya National Museum is not directly linked to food but offers a rich glimpse into the history and culture of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Ayutthaya was a melting pot of cultures, which resulted in a unique culinary fusion. The food style of Ayutthaya has been influenced by foreign traders, including the Portuguese, Japanese, Persian, and Chinese, who brought with them new ingredients, recipes, and cooking techniques that were absorbed into the local cuisine. The Ayutthaya period (1351-1767) also saw the introduction of chillies to Thailand, which would become a staple in Thai cooking.
The museum contains artifacts from the Ayutthaya kingdom, some of which relate to the food culture of the time, such as porcelain used in royal courts and ancient cooking utensils. This offers insight into the diets and eating habits of the ancient Siamese capital, showing the importance of rice and riverine fish in the local diet, along with a variety of herbs, spices, and vegetables.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Ayutthaya
- Guay Tiew Ruea (Boat Noodles) - Non Veg: A richly flavored soup with pork or chicken, darkened with pig's blood and packed with spices and herbs.
- Roti Sai Mai - Veg: An Ayutthaya specialty, it is thin, crepe-like roti wrapped around threads of sweet cotton candy.
- Tom Yum Goong - Non Veg: A spicy and sour shrimp soup that is a staple in Thai cuisine.
- Pad Thai - Veg/Non Veg: A popular stir-fried noodle dish that can be found with shrimp, chicken, or made vegetarian.
- Green Curry - Veg/Non Veg: Made with green chilies, the curry can be prepared with chicken, beef, or just vegetables for a veg option.
- Som Tam (Papaya Salad) - Veg/Non Veg: A tangy and spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya; fish sauce can be omitted for a veg version.
- Mango Sticky Rice - Veg: A classic Thai dessert of sweet sticky rice with ripe mangoes.
- Massaman Curry - Veg/Non Veg: A rich and hearty curry that has Muslim roots, it can be made with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Khanom Bueang - Veg: A crispy Thai crepe often topped with meringue and sweet or savory fillings.
- Kao Pad (Fried Rice) - Veg/Non Veg: A versatile dish that can be customized with different proteins or made vegetarian.
Top Famous Restaurants Near Chao Sam Phraya National Museum
- Malakor Kitchen and Cafe
- Address: 11/1 Moo 4, Khlong Suan Plu, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Green Curry (Veg/Non Veg)
- The Summer House
- Address: 12/34 Naresuan Rd, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District
Famous Food: Tom Yum Goong (Non Veg)
- Baan Khun Phra
- Address: Phra Ram Rd, Tambon Tha Wasukri, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Thai Traditional Desserts (Veg)
- Salon Du Chocolate
- Address: U-Thong Rd, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Handmade Chocolates (Veg)
- Brickhouse INN
- Address: 9/9 Moo 1 Tambol Kamang, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Brickhouse Pizza (Veg/Non Veg)
- Tony's Place
- Address: 12/18 Naresuan Road Soi 1, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Pad Thai (Veg/Non Veg)
- Khanom Bueang Yuan Wan Na Ayutthaya
- Address: U-Thong Rd, Pratu Chai Sub-district, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Khanom Bueang (Veg)
- Ayutthaya Boat Noodle
- Address: Near Wat Mahatat, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Guay Tiew Ruea (Boat Noodles) (Non Veg)
- Street Food Stalls near Wat Mahathat
- Address: Tha Wasukri, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Street Food Variety (Veg/Non Veg)
- Tae Cha Tea House
- Address: 29/1 Moo 5 Wat Tha Karong Sub-District, Ayutthaya
Famous Food: Thai Iced Tea (Veg)
Remember that while the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum itself does not serve food, these nearby options offer a flavorful taste of Ayutthaya’s culinary delights.