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Food Place Tier Checker
How do you know if the Pad Thai stall is the famous one or a tourist-trap imitation? Walk in and answer 8 questions — score yourself in 30 seconds.
Walk-in checklist
What this solves
The Bangkok travel-blog paradox: every review calls everywhere "amazing and authentic." This tool is the opposite — it tells you to walk out if certain red flags appear.
How to read
- Tier A: 8–9 of 9 positive signals. Eat here.
- Tier B: 5–7 of 9. Probably fine, may be touristy.
- Tier C: 0–4. Walk away.
Limitations
- Chiang Mai and Phuket have different rules — beach resorts are usually touristy even if right.
- Some "tourist trap" places are genuinely good for visitors (cleaner, English menu).
- The famous Jay Fai waits 4 hours — but it's worth it; don't apply this tool to her.
FAQ
What if there's no other customer?
Empty at 7 pm = bad sign. Empty at 2 pm = normal (lunch crowd leaves). Trust Thai customer count over foreigner count.
What about Michelin-rated places?
Jay Fai, Raan Jay Fai, and other Bib Gourmand picks are usually Tier A — check the Michelin Guide for the latest list.