two tips that actually work at 71: first, if you see a group of thai guys eating something that looks like a whole fried fish with green goo on it, that's the pla tod with spicy green mango salad they do off-menu for regulars. just point at their table and say "ao an nan" and the staff will sort u out. second, the real secret drink is asking for a "soda ya" which is just soda water with a shot of ya dong, that herbal Thai liquor they keep under the counter. it's like 60 baht and hits way harder than any cocktail they'd list on a menu

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ngl the real move at 71 isnt the food its the timing. show up around 4pm on a weekday and you'll catch the after-work crowd ordering things not on any menu, like the crispy pork belly they only do when they have it. they'll just bring it out on a little plate with som tam if the chef's in a good mood. also the staff will mix you a "lao khao" soda if you ask for it, basically a cheap local whiskey highball they make for themselves. just sit at the bar and watch what the guys in work shirts are drinking

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ok the thing nobody's mentioned is the takeaway situation. if you call ahead and order in thai they'll do a "glub glub" bag of whatever the staff are eating that day, usually a stir fry with holy basil and a crispy fried egg that's not on the english menu at all. just say "ao glub glub" and they'll know. also the real off-menu play is bringing your own bottle of spirits and asking for a "mix set" which is just ice, soda, and a plate of sliced limes for like 20 baht. they're totally chill about it as long as you buy food

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yeah Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but if you're up for a detour, try Som Tum Nua near Siam Square. their som tam pu pla ra is insane if you like the fermented fish sauce kick. way more pungent than the On Nut spot, just less grilled chicken options

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