TipsApril 22, 2026•4 min read
Thai Spice Levels Explained: From Mild to Thai-Hot
What does 'Thai hot' really mean? A clear guide to Thai spice levels — mild, medium, hot, Thai-hot — and how to order your perfect heat at any Thai restaurant.
"How spicy do you want it?" can be the scariest question at a Thai restaurant.
The Thai spice scale
- Mild (1) — gentle warmth, kid-friendly
- Medium (2-3) — noticeable kick
- Hot (4) — sweating territory
- Thai-Hot (5) — locals-only; fresh bird's-eye chilies, no mercy
Tips before you order
Start one level below where you think you are. Rice on the side is the best chili extinguisher.
Test your limits — call 781-936-5142.
Hungry yet?
Order your favorites or reserve a table at Cozy Pho & Thai and taste the dishes from this guide.