Pattaya

🍜

Thai Cuisine

Sections

Popular Thai Dishes

  1. Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, chicken, or tofu, mixed with eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts. A quintessential Thai dish.
  2. Tom Yum Goong: A spicy and sour shrimp soup flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.
  3. Som Tum: A spicy green papaya salad that combines sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, often served with sticky rice.
  4. Massaman Curry: A rich, mildly spicy curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, and peanuts, influenced by Indian cuisine.
  5. Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan): A spicy curry made with green curry paste, coconut milk, and your choice of meat or tofu.
  6. Mango Sticky Rice: A popular dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango slices, and coconut milk.

Dining Options

  1. Street Food: Pattaya is famous for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. Look for stalls offering grilled meats, fresh seafood, and local snacks.
  2. Local Restaurants: Many local eateries serve authentic Thai dishes. Prices are generally low, with meals ranging from 50 to 150 THB ($1.50 to $4.50).
  3. Fine Dining: For a more upscale experience, consider restaurants like The Glass House or Rimpa Lapin, which offer stunning views and gourmet Thai cuisine. Prices can range from 500 to 2,000 THB ($15 to $60) per person.
  4. Buffets: Many hotels and resorts offer buffet-style dining, featuring a variety of Thai and international dishes. Prices typically range from 600 to 1,200 THB ($18 to $36).

Approximate Costs

  • Street Food: 30 to 100 THB ($1 to $3)
  • Casual Dining: 100 to 300 THB ($3 to $9)
  • Mid-range Restaurants: 300 to 800 THB ($9 to $24)
  • Fine Dining: 800 to 2,500 THB ($24 to $75)

Local Dining Customs

  • Eating with Hands: In traditional settings, it’s common to eat with your hands, especially when consuming sticky rice. However, utensils are widely used in restaurants.
  • Sharing Dishes: Thai meals are often served family-style, with several dishes shared among diners. It’s polite to offer food to others before serving yourself.
  • Respect for Elders: When dining with locals, it’s customary to wait for the eldest person to start eating before you begin.
  • Tipping: While not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (10% of the total) is appreciated in restaurants.

Recommendations for Restaurants and Street Food Spots

  1. Pattaya Beach Road: A great area for street food, especially in the evening. Look for stalls selling grilled seafood and Pad Thai.
  2. Sukhumvit Road: Home to many local restaurants and eateries. Try Khao Gaeng Rang Nam for a variety of curries and rice dishes.
  3. The Glass House: Located on the beach, this restaurant offers a beautiful setting and a wide range of Thai dishes.
  4. Rimpa Lapin: Known for its stunning views and delicious seafood, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner.
  5. Mum Aroi: A popular seafood restaurant with a casual atmosphere, known for its fresh catches and local flavors.

Cultural Considerations and Tips

  • Spice Levels: Thai food can be quite spicy. If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, ask for a milder version (e.g., "pet nit noi" for a little spicy).
  • Dining Hours: Most restaurants open for lunch around 11 AM and close by 2 PM, then reopen for dinner around 5 PM until late.
  • Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable in most dining establishments, but upscale restaurants may require smart casual dress.
  • Language: While many people in Pattaya speak English, learning a few basic Thai phrases can enhance your dining experience and show respect for the local culture.

By exploring the rich flavors and diverse dining options in Pattaya, you’ll not only enjoy delicious meals but also gain a deeper appreciation for Thai culture. Enjoy your culinary adventure!