While table etiquette is somewhat crucial in Thai culture, saying something before a meal is not at all important. However, there is a chance that you will hear people say a few words before starting the meal. One of these is chooen. chooen, which means "please" as an invitation.

Unlike many cultures that have a specific "bon appétit" or "itadakimasu," there isn't one universal phrase that Thai people say before every meal. Instead, the focus is on social etiquette and respect. If you are a guest, you might wait for the eldest person at the table to start or say, "Gin khao gan khrap/kha" (Let's eat rice/food together). This is more of an invitation to the group to begin. In a formal setting, you would offer a Wai (pressing your palms together) to your host or the elders as a sign of gratitude. During the meal, the most common phrase you'll hear—and one you should definitely use—is "Aroy mak!" which means "Very delicious!" This is the ultimate compliment to the chef or host. To be polite, always end your sentences with the particle "khrap" if you are male or "kha" if you are female. This small addition transforms a basic statement into a respectful one, which is highly valued in Thai social circles.