Top 20 Best Thai Beverages You Must Try for an Unforgettable Experience

Introduction

Thailand is a treasure trove of vibrant flavors, and its beverages are no exception. Whether you’re looking for something refreshing to quench your thirst or a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings, Thai drinks offer a delightful range of options that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. From iced teas and tropical fruit juices to herbal concoctions, the best Thai beverages are infused with a blend of unique ingredients that tantalize your taste buds and provide an authentic taste of Thai culture.

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 20 best Thai beverages you must try, each offering something distinct and packed with Thai flavors. Let’s dive into these drinks, ranging from street vendor staples to traditional concoctions passed down through generations. Whether you’re traveling to Thailand or just exploring its culinary delights from afar, these beverages are not to be missed.

1. Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen)

Let’s start with the best Thai beverage that has gained global fame—Thai Iced Tea, or “Cha Yen.” This vibrant orange drink, served cold with a rich, creamy texture, is a crowd favorite. It’s made from strongly brewed black tea, often mixed with star anise, crushed tamarind seed, and a splash of condensed milk to add sweetness and creaminess. The perfect balance of sweet and slightly bitter flavors makes it a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Why You Must Try It:

• The combination of strong black tea and rich condensed milk offers a unique, refreshing taste.
• It pairs well with spicy Thai food, as the sweetness balances the heat of the dishes.

2. Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang)

Oliang, or Thai Iced Coffee, is another popular drink that is served across Thailand. It’s a bit more robust than your average iced coffee. The beans are brewed using a traditional Thai-style coffee sock, and it’s sweetened with a mixture of sugar and condensed milk. Served over ice, Oliang is strong, slightly sweet, and wonderfully refreshing.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s the perfect pick-me-up during the day.
• If you’re a coffee lover, Thai Iced Coffee offers a unique twist with its preparation and flavors.

3. Nam Manao (Limeade)

For something zesty and thirst-quenching, Nam Manao is the way to go. This traditional Thai limeade is a simple drink, yet incredibly refreshing. Made from freshly squeezed lime juice, water, sugar, and a touch of salt, it’s a great way to cool down on a hot day in Thailand.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s a naturally refreshing drink with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and salty.
• The drink is often served over ice, making it a cooling companion for Thailand’s warm climate.

4. Coconut Water (Nam Maprao)

One of the healthiest and most refreshing drinks you can have in Thailand is fresh coconut water, or Nam Maprao. The tropical heat in Thailand makes fresh coconuts widely available, and vendors sell them by simply chopping the top off and inserting a straw. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes, making it a great natural hydrator.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s naturally hydrating and packed with nutrients.
• Drinking coconut water straight from the coconut is an experience in itself.

5. Butterfly Pea Tea (Nam Dok Anchan)

This vibrant blue tea is made from dried butterfly pea flowers and often served with a splash of lime juice. The citrus changes the tea’s color from blue to purple, making it as visually exciting as it is delicious. Butterfly Pea Tea is caffeine-free and is known for its antioxidant properties, making it one of the best Thai beverages for health-conscious drinkers.

Why You Must Try It:

• The color-changing effect is a fun visual treat.
• It’s packed with antioxidants and great for relaxation.

6. Thai Milk Tea (Cha Nom Yen)

A sweetened, creamy tea, Cha Nom Yen is a must-try beverage for those with a sweet tooth. Made from black tea mixed with sugar and condensed milk, this cold beverage is commonly found in street stalls and restaurants across Thailand.

Why You Must Try It:

• Its sweet, milky flavor is highly satisfying.
• It’s a perfect dessert-like drink after a meal.

7. Roselle Juice (Nam Krajeab)

Nam Krajeab, or Roselle Juice, is a ruby-red herbal drink made from the calyces of the roselle plant. It has a tangy flavor similar to cranberry juice and is known for its cooling properties. It’s a common sight in Thailand, often sold by street vendors.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s packed with antioxidants and offers a refreshing tangy flavor.
• Known for its health benefits, it’s a great option for those seeking a nutritious drink.

8. Sugarcane Juice (Nam Oy)

Sugarcane juice, or Nam Oy, is a naturally sweet beverage extracted from fresh sugarcane stalks. This drink is a staple in tropical regions like Thailand, where vendors press the juice right in front of you for a fresh and pure experience.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s a naturally sweet and refreshing drink, perfect for beating the heat.
• The freshness of the juice makes it incredibly delicious.

9. Thai Lemon Tea (Cha Manow)

Cha Manow is Thai lemon tea, a refreshing twist on traditional iced tea. Made from black tea, fresh lemon juice, and often sweetened with syrup or honey, this drink is perfect for a hot day when you’re craving something light and citrusy.

Why You Must Try It:

• The combination of strong tea and fresh lemon is a refreshing contrast.
• It’s a great alternative to heavier, milk-based Thai teas.

10. Grass Jelly Drink (Cha Chao Guay)

For something unique, try the Grass Jelly Drink. Grass jelly is a common ingredient in Southeast Asia, and in Thailand, it’s used in this sweet beverage that combines grass jelly cubes with sugar and sometimes coconut milk. It’s refreshing and has a slightly herbal taste, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s an unusual but tasty drink that offers a unique texture and flavor.
• Grass jelly is known for its cooling properties.

11. Bael Fruit Tea (Matoom Tea)

Made from dried slices of bael fruit, Matoom Tea is a traditional Thai herbal drink known for its health benefits. The tea has a slightly sweet and earthy taste and is often enjoyed both hot and cold. It’s particularly popular for its soothing properties and digestive benefits.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s a unique tea that’s good for your digestive system.
• The natural sweetness makes it enjoyable without added sugar.

12. Pandan Juice (Nam Bai Toey)

Pandan Juice, or Nam Bai Toey, is a sweet and fragrant drink made from pandan leaves. Known for its vibrant green color and distinct flavor, pandan juice is a refreshing and mildly sweet beverage that is both unique and soothing.

Why You Must Try It:

• The aromatic flavor of pandan is unlike anything else.
• It’s a mild, refreshing drink perfect for those who enjoy subtle flavors.

13. Thai Green Tea (Cha Kiew)

If you’re a fan of green tea, Cha Kiew (Thai Green Tea) is a must-try. It’s typically served cold with condensed milk or sugar, creating a sweet, creamy texture that complements the earthy flavor of green tea. Thai green tea is widely available and offers a delightful alternative to traditional black tea drinks.

Why You Must Try It:

• It offers a unique twist on traditional green tea with a sweet, creamy flavor.
• It’s refreshing and pairs well with a wide variety of Thai snacks.

14. Soya Milk (Nam Tao Hoo)

Nam Tao Hoo, or Thai soya milk, is a simple and nutritious drink often enjoyed at breakfast. It’s commonly served warm, sometimes with added ginger syrup or small doughnut-like pastries called “pa tong go.” The drink is light and slightly sweet, offering a healthy alternative to more sugary beverages.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s a healthy, protein-packed drink.
• Often enjoyed with small snacks, it’s a great option for a light breakfast.

15. Longan Juice (Nam Lam Yai)

Longan Juice is a sweet drink made from dried longan fruits. Longan is known for its light sweetness, similar to lychee, and the juice offers a deliciously smooth flavor with slight floral undertones. Served cold, it’s a refreshing and mildly sweet beverage that’s perfect for cooling off.

Why You Must Try It:

• The natural sweetness of longan fruit is delightful.
• It’s light and refreshing, making it a great option for hot days.

16. Lemongrass Drink (Nam Takrai)

Lemongrass, commonly used in Thai cooking, is also brewed into a refreshing herbal drink known as Nam Takrai. This drink has a subtle citrusy flavor and is often enjoyed for its cooling and digestive benefits. It’s a great way to experience one of Thailand’s key ingredients in a drink form.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s refreshing and has a delicate citrus flavor.
• Known for its digestive benefits, it’s both tasty and good for you.

17. Pomegranate Juice (Nam Tub Tim)

In Thai markets, you’ll often see vendors selling freshly pressed pomegranate juice, or Nam Tub Tim. The juice is vibrant and packed with antioxidants, offering a sweet-tart flavor that’s as delicious as it is healthy.

Why You Must Try It:

• It’s naturally sweet and loaded with health benefits.
• Freshly pressed juice ensures you get the best quality and flavor.

18. Taro Milk (Nom Pueak)

Taro Milk is a sweet, creamy drink made from taro root, a popular starchy vegetable in Thailand. The drink is often purple in color and has a smooth, velvety texture. It’s both sweet and slightly nutty, offering a unique flavor that’s loved by locals.

Why You Must Try It:

• The creamy, nutty flavor of taro is unique and delightful.
• It’s a sweet treat that’s perfect as a dessert beverage.

19. Mango Smoothie (Nam Mamuang Pan)

Thai mangoes are famous for their sweetness, and a Mango Smoothie made with ripe Thai mangoes is an absolute must-try. Blended with ice, yogurt, or coconut milk, this smoothie is rich, creamy, and bursting with tropical flavors.

Why You Must Try It:

• The sweetness of Thai mangoes is unparalleled.
• It’s a rich, tropical smoothie that’s perfect for hot weather.

20. Tamarind Juice (Nam Makham)

Tamarind Juice, or Nam Makham, is a tangy and slightly sweet beverage made from tamarind pulp. Tamarind is commonly used in Thai cooking, but it also makes for a delicious and refreshing drink. The tartness of tamarind is balanced with a bit of sugar, making this juice a unique and refreshing option.

Why You Must Try It:

• The sweet-tangy flavor is refreshing and unique.
• It’s a traditional drink that offers a taste of authentic Thai flavors.

Conclusion

Whether you’re sipping on a sweet Thai iced tea or cooling off with a refreshing Nam Manao, Thailand’s vibrant beverage culture offers something for every palate. From herbal teas to tropical fruit juices, the best Thai beverages bring together unique ingredients and flavors that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage. So, the next time you find yourself in Thailand—or just a Thai restaurant abroad—be sure to try these must-try drinks for an unforgettable experience.

FAQ Section:

1. What are the best Thai beverages to try?

Some of the best Thai beverages include Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen), Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang), Nam Manao (Limeade), Coconut Water (Nam Maprao), and Butterfly Pea Tea (Nam Dok Anchan), among others.

2. What is Thai Iced Tea made of?

Thai Iced Tea, or “Cha Yen,” is made from strongly brewed black tea, mixed with spices like star anise, and sweetened with sugar and condensed milk. It’s served cold with ice and has a rich, creamy flavor.

3. Is Thai Iced Coffee different from regular iced coffee?

Yes, Thai Iced Coffee, or “Oliang,” is brewed using a special coffee sock and typically sweetened with condensed milk and sugar. It has a more robust flavor than regular iced coffee.

4. Are Thai beverages healthy?

Many Thai beverages are made from natural ingredients like herbs, fruits, and flowers, which offer various health benefits. Drinks like Butterfly Pea Tea, Lemongrass Tea, and Roselle Juice are rich in antioxidants and known for their healing properties.

5. What is the most refreshing Thai drink for hot weather?

Nam Manao (Limeade) and Coconut Water (Nam Maprao) are two of the most refreshing Thai drinks, perfect for cooling down in hot weather.

6. Can I find these Thai drinks outside of Thailand?

Yes, many popular Thai beverages like Thai Iced Tea, Thai Iced Coffee, and Mango Smoothies can be found in Thai restaurants and some specialty stores worldwide.