What Food To Try in Pattaya and Food Prices

Khao Man Gai - Chicken Rice (substantial rice dish) - Tender poached chicken served over fragrant rice accompanied by a savory broth and spicy dipping sauce. Locals often enjoy it for a quick lunch, especially in small roadside stalls.

Pad Krapow Moo Saap - Stir-fried Pork with Basil (spicy street food) - Minced pork stir-fried with holy basil, chili, and garlic, served over rice with a fried egg on top. A late-night favorite among locals, it's a must-try from street vendors after a night out.

Massaman Curry - Massaman Karee (rich curry) - A fragrant dish made with tender beef, potatoes, peanuts, and warm spices slow-cooked in coconut milk. Typically eaten for dinner, it's often shared among family during special occasions for its unique flavor.

Som Tum - Green Papaya Salad (refreshing local specialty) - A zesty salad combining shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and lime juice, all pounded together in a mortar. Best enjoyed as a midday snack at local markets, pairing well with grilled meats.

Nam Prik Pao - Chili Dip (surprising combination) - A smoky chili paste made with roasted peppers and complemented by an array of fresh vegetables and sticky rice. Locals savor it at breakfast, often as part of a larger spread, balancing flavors excellently.

Khao Lao - Lao-style Rice Noodle Soup (seasonal delight) - A hearty soup featuring rice noodles simmered in a rich broth, garnished with fresh herbs and lime. Best during the rainy season, this dish warms the soul and brings locals together for comfort.

Jok - Thai Rice Porridge (popular breakfast item) - Silky rice porridge topped with minced pork, ginger, and a sprinkle of green onions, served with a side of pickled veggies. A morning staple for many, locals prefer it from small breakfast shops, often ordering it with extra toppings.

Thai Iced Tea - ชานมเย็น (sweet milk tea) - Strong black tea brewed with spices, sweetened with sugar, and topped with condensed milk. It’s a favorite afternoon refreshment, often enjoyed while lounging at beachside cafes after a long day in the sun.

Pandan Drink - น้ำใบเตย (fragrant pandan juice) - A sweet and aromatic drink made from pandan leaves, sugar, and coconut milk, served chilled. You'll find locals sipping it during family gatherings or at markets, especially on hot days when you need something to cool off.

Singha Beer - สิงห์ (local lager) - A well-balanced beer brewed with malted barley and hops, generally served ice-cold in tall glasses. Most often enjoyed at beach bars or lively BBQs, it pairs perfectly with spicy Thai dishes and is especially popular during evening gatherings when the sunsets are mesmerizing.

Khanom Chan - ขนมชั้น (layered dessert) - A vibrant, pandan-flavored steamed cake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar, creating a beautiful multi-layered presentation. Typically found at celebrations such as weddings or festivals, its chewy texture is satisfying and makes it a hit among kids and adults alike.

Sticky Rice with Mango - ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง (sweet mango dessert) - A delightful treat featuring sweet, sticky rice paired with ripe mango slices and drizzled with coconut cream. The best time to savor this dish is during mango season, which peaks around April to May, making it a must-have during hot summer nights.