Hello,
Yes, there are distinct regions in Thailand as far as food goes - the North, North East, Central and South. Central Thai food is sweeter than the rest, and not as spicy. Now, don't get thinking that means sticky sweet and mild -- most of my friends who come to visit are surprised at the level of heat in Bangkok (Central) food. Thais add (a little) of sugar to balance the dish. It is lovely and really brings out the flavors. It should not be sweet like you describe.

There are very distinct differences in the regions. I'll try to sum it up quickly. The North of Thailand has a few famous dishes - loads of 'naam prik' - chili pastes which you dip veggies or pork rinds into. They're famous for a type of sausage too which is filled with pork. North East is poor - and borders Laos. The dialect they speak there is closely related to Lao. The food is too. Very spicy, sour. Lots of meat. Fermented stuff. Bugs. Specialties include grilled chicken, laap, som tum (the kind with fish paste - nothing like the ones you've had in the US, promise). In both the North & NE they eat more sticky rice (the kind in the basket) than Jasmine rice. And ya eat that with your hands. Fun!

The South has a lot of fish, coconut milk. There's a large muslim population there too, so you get a lot of non-pork dishes (unlike the North). You get nuts too -- peanuts and such. Stuff from this region you might know are Massaman curry, Sate, fish curries.

And finally Central Thai/Bangkok. Bangkok is FULL of 2nd, 3rd, 4th+ generation Chinese and they've brought a lot to the area, including cooking techniques. Central Thai food is *very* influenced by Chinese (Dea-jiew/Chao-Jo people). Stir-fries, flame cooked veggies, clear soups, noodle dishes, etc all have roots in China.

And there's the quick regional tour! If you have any questions, let me know. I'd be happy to answer.

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The problem with the food you're getting in the US is one (or both) of the following:

1) It's not cooked by Thais. Many restaurants are run by Chinese (from China - not from Thailand) who are running with the current Thai-food fad.

2) It's run by Thais but they're scared you can't eat Thai food. This is generally the rule. They make the food not spicy, add a ton of sugar & coconut milk and fry everything. They substitute bell peppers for chilies (Thais don't eat bell peppers). I've had a handful of decent meals in the US *if* I ordered in Thai and said, "please make this the way Thai people eat". I should make a card people can download in Thai which says that. :)

Thank you Cee.
You are awesome!

Thanks Cee. That should help us. Neither of us likes sweet main courses like we got in this touristy town.