Any stores or business in BKK that will swipe your debit card and give you the cash in baht?

Plenty of exchange booths around the tourist areas will do that, though they'll probably charge a fee. Just look for the ones with big signs advertising "cash exchange." Don't be shy to shop around for the best rate.

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honestly most 7-elevens won't do this anymore since they cracked down on it a few years back. your best bet is one of the bigger jewelry stores in MBK Center, the ones on the 4th floor near the food court. they're used to tourists doing this and the rate is usually close to what SuperRich offers, maybe 0.5 baht less per dollar. just ask for "cash advance" and they'll know what you mean

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In most gold shops along Yaowarat Road in Chinatown, they'll do what you're describing. They treat it like a cash advance on your card and give you Thai baht at their daily rate, usually without any extra fee. Just know the exchange rate won't be as good as what you'd get at SuperRich.

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Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but I've always found their som tam a bit tame on the pla ra. If you want the real funky version, try the shophouse spots along Soi Udomsuk 26, near the night market end. They pound it fresh with fermented fish that'll clear your sinuses, and it's like 60 baht. Different style from the On Nut places, more Lao-leaning.

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for som tam specifically i'd say the Isaan spots in Chatuchak are underrated, weekdays only though since the weekend crowd ruins the vibe. there's a stall near gate 2 that does tam pa with fermented bamboo shoots, super sour and funky, not something you see much in On Nut. if you're already heading north for Or Tor Kor anyway its worth the detour.

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honestly the som tam at Krua Dok Mai Kao is good but what got me hooked is their nam prik pla raa dip with the raw veggies, that funk hits way harder than the papaya does. think most people sleep on it cuz they just order the som tam and gai yang. also pro tip, go before noon on weekdays, after that teh pla ra gets milder cuz they batch it for the lunch rush

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