1. What are the most popular local dishes in Hat Yai?
Some of the most popular local dishes in Hat Yai include:
1. Khao Yam – a rice salad dish made with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, served with a side of spicy sauce.
2. Tom Yum Goong – a hot and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, lime leaves, and other fragrant herbs.
3. Roti canai – a flaky Malaysian-style bread served with a curry dipping sauce.
4. Kway Teow – stir-fried flat rice noodles mixed with meat, vegetables, and egg in a flavorful sauce.
5. Gaeng Pet (aka red curry) – a spicy Thai curry dish made with coconut milk, red chili paste, and your choice of meat or vegetables.
6. Pad Thai – stir-fried rice noodles mixed with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and your choice of meat or seafood.
7. Satay – skewered marinated meat served with peanut dipping sauce.
8. Som Tum (aka papaya salad) – shredded unripe papaya mixed with chili peppers, fish sauce, lime juice, peanuts, and other seasonings.
9. Moo Ping – grilled pork skewers marinated in sweet soy sauce and garlic.
10. Hainanese chicken rice – steamed chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth.
2. Which restaurants or street food stalls offer the best Pad Thai in the city?
1. Thip Samai Pad Thai: Located in the Banglamphu area, this restaurant is known for serving the best Pad Thai in Bangkok. They have been around since 1966 and are famous for their unique recipe which includes a fluffy egg omelette over the noodles.
2. Pad Thai Mae Am: This popular street food stall is located near Khao San Road and offers authentic and affordable Pad Thai cooked to perfection. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
3. Jay Fai: This Michelin-starred food cart serves up delicious and crispy Pad Thai with crab meat and prawns. The price may be higher than your average street food, but it is worth every bite.
4. Rod Dee Det: A hidden gem in the Chidlom district, this small restaurant serves amazing wok-fried Pad Thai with generous servings of fresh seafood.
5. Baan Phadthai: Located in the trendy Ari neighborhood, this restaurant has a modern twist on traditional Pad Thai, using organic ingredients and offering options for vegetarians and vegans.
6. Thaan Charoen Rat: This street food stall near Siam Center offers flavorful and affordable Pad Thai made with hearty portions of chicken or prawns.
7. Auntie Fatso’s Kitchen: Another great spot for vegetarian or vegan Pad Thai, this cozy restaurant in Sukhumvit uses fresh tofu and vegetables to create a tasty dish.
8. Soi Polo Fried Chicken: While known for their famous fried chicken, this restaurant also serves excellent Pad Thai with juicy chunks of chicken mixed in.
9. Maha Naga Sweni Boran: Specializing in ancient Siamese cuisine, this restaurant serves up an authentic version of Pad Thai using traditional herbs and spices to enhance the flavors.
10.Jitlada Taling Chan Market: Located at a floating market just outside Bangkok, Jitlada offers one of the best versions of Pad Thai cooked over a charcoal fire for that perfect smoky flavor.
3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Hat Yai?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Hat Yai. Some popular options include:1. Vegetarian House: This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including mock meats, tofu, and vegetable stir-fries.
2. Siam Veggie: Specializing in Thai cuisine, this restaurant serves up delicious vegetarian versions of traditional Thai dishes like Pad Thai and tom yum soup.
3. Cool Breeze Cafe: This cozy café offers a range of vegetarian options, such as salads, sandwiches, and pasta.
4. Mediterranean Organic Bakery & Restaurant: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant uses organic ingredients to create delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes.
5. Sri Ganesh Indian Vegetarian Restaurant: As the name suggests, this restaurant serves tasty Indian vegetarian cuisine.
6. Ming Kwan Vegetarian Buffet: For those looking for an all-you-can-eat option, this buffet-style restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes at an affordable price.
Note: It’s always recommended to communicate your dietary restrictions or preferences to the staff at any restaurant to ensure your meal meets your requirements.
4. What is the best place to try authentic Southern Thai cuisine?
Sri Trang Restaurant in Nakhon Si Thammarat is highly recommended for its traditional Southern Thai dishes. Other popular options include Mor Mu Dong in Surat Thani and Khanom Jeen Baan Pueng in Phuket.
5. Where can I find a good selection of seafood dishes in Hat Yai?
1. Hiaad Seafood Restaurant: This popular seafood restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood options, including crab, prawns, and fish at reasonable prices.
2. Lee La Buffet: Located in Central Festival Mall, this buffet-style restaurant features an array of grilled and steamed seafood dishes to choose from.
3. BP Grand Tower Hotel: This hotel’s restaurant serves up a wide range of traditional Thai seafood dishes, as well as international options.
4. Ton Khaow Seafood Market: This bustling market has numerous stalls selling a variety of fresh seafood that can be cooked on the spot.
5. Jontip Seafood Restaurant: With its cozy atmosphere and delicious menu featuring local specialties, this is a great spot for those looking for authentic Thai seafood dishes.
6. Rim Nam Seafood Market: A favorite among locals, this lively market offers a range of BBQ seafood along the canal with outdoor seating.
7. Boon Kanjanarat Fresh Market: This large market has a dedicated section for fresh seafood vendors offering an extensive selection at affordable prices.
8. Kelantan Lane Food Street: A popular spot among foodies, this street offers several restaurants serving up delectable Chinese-Thai fusion seafood dishes.
9. Greenway Night Market: Along with various street food options, this bustling night market also features numerous stalls selling grilled and fried seafood at affordable prices.
10. Aquarium Cafe & Restaurant: For those looking for a unique dining experience, this themed restaurant allows you to pick your live fish from an aquarium to be cooked according to your preference.
6. Are there any must-try dishes or specialties unique to Hat Yai?
Some must-try dishes or specialties unique to Hat Yai include:– Khao Yam – a rice salad dish made with various herbs and vegetables, served with a spicy sauce and your choice of protein.
– Boat Noodle – known for its rich and flavorful broth, this noodle dish is typically served with beef or pork.
– Moo Ping – marinated grilled pork skewers, often served as a street food snack.
– Kway Teow Haeng – stir-fried rice noodles with chicken or seafood and vegetables.
– Tom Yum Goong – a spicy and sour soup made with lemongrass, lime, chili peppers, and shrimp.
– Satay – grilled skewered meat (usually chicken or beef) served with a peanut dipping sauce.
– Khao Man Gai Tod – fried chicken over rice, served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
7. What are some recommended food markets or night markets in Hat Yai?
Some recommended food markets or night markets in Hat Yai include:
1. Kim Yong Market: This bustling market offers a variety of local snacks, fresh fruits and vegetables, and ready-to-eat dishes.
2. Suntisuk Market: A popular spot for locals to shop for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and cooked street food.
3. Asean Night Bazaar: This open-air market features stalls selling clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and street food from different Asian countries.
4. Greenway Night Market: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.
5. Chilamphlee Night Market: A great place to try local street food such as boat noodle soup and kway teow haeng.
6. Khlonghae Floating Market: Located on the outskirts of Hat Yai city center, this floating market offers an array of Thai cuisine options as well as traditional handicrafts.
7. Which restaurants have the best views for a romantic dinner in the city?
1. The Waterfront Seafood Grill
2. Top of the Mark
3. Greens Restaurant
4. Cliff House Restaurant
5. Foreign Cinema
6. Coqueta
7. Boulevard
8. One Market Restaurant
9. EPIC Steak
10. La Mar Cebicheria Peruana
8. Is it common for restaurants to use MSG in their dishes in Hat Yai?
Yes, it is quite common for restaurants in Hat Yai to use MSG (monosodium glutamate) in their dishes. This is because MSG is often used as a flavor enhancer in Thai cuisine to make the food taste richer and more savory. However, some restaurants may offer dishes without MSG upon request. It is always best to inform the staff if you have any allergies or preferences regarding MSG when ordering your food.
9. Where can I find budget-friendly but delicious local food options?
1. Street Food areas or markets: Many cities and towns have designated street food areas or markets where you can find a variety of affordable and authentic local dishes.
2. Local eateries or “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants: These smaller, family-owned restaurants often offer traditional and budget-friendly meals.
3. Cafeterias in local universities or schools: These establishments often cater to students on a budget and serve inexpensive but tasty local food.
4. Food trucks: Often found near popular tourist destinations, food trucks offer a quick and budget-friendly option for trying out local cuisine.
5. Local bakeries or pastry shops: For a quick snack or breakfast option, visit a local bakery or pastry shop for freshly made snacks at affordable prices.
6. Supermarkets or grocery stores: Many supermarkets have deli counters where you can find pre-made local dishes at affordable prices.
7. Food markets or festivals: Look out for food markets or festivals happening in your area, where you can try a variety of authentic dishes at lower prices.
8. Look for set menus or lunch deals: Many restaurants offer set menus during lunchtime that include traditional dishes at discounted prices.
9. Ask locals for recommendations: Locals are the best source for finding hidden gem eateries that serve delicious and budget-friendly local food. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations!
10. Are there any recommended food tours or cooking classes available in Hat Yai?
Yes, there are several food tours and cooking classes available in Hat Yai.
1. Hat Yai Food Tour – This food tour takes you to some of the best local restaurants and street stalls in Hat Yai, where you can try a variety of traditional dishes and snacks.
2. Thai Cooking Class at The Living Room – Learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes from a professional chef in a hands-on cooking class.
3. Traditional Southern Thai Cooking Class at Kan Eng Restaurant – Take a cooking class at one of the most popular restaurants in Hat Yai and learn how to make traditional Southern Thai dishes.
4. Chopstick Hill Sunset BBQ Tour – Enjoy an evening tour that includes a visit to Chopstick Hill for panoramic views of Hat Yai and a BBQ dinner with local seafood and meats.
5. Floating Market and Street Food Tour by Tuk Tuk – Explore the vibrant floating market and sample delicious local street food on this guided tuk-tuk tour.
We recommend checking with each provider for availability, pricing, and dietary restrictions before booking.
11. What are some popular dessert options in Hat Yai?
Some popular dessert options in Hat Yai include mango sticky rice (khao niao mamuang), coconut ice cream, Thai tea custard buns, fried bananas with honey, and durian-flavored sweets. Other popular desserts include grass jelly (chin chow), red rubies in coconut milk (tub tim krob), and Jackfruit sticky rice (khao niao kaew).
12. Where is the best place to enjoy a traditional Thai-style breakfast?
The best place to enjoy a traditional Thai-style breakfast would be in a local market or on the streets of Thailand. These places offer a variety of delicious and authentic dishes, such as khao tom (rice soup), khao neow (sticky rice), moo ping (grilled pork skewers), and various types of noodle soups. Some popular local markets for breakfast include Or Tor Kor Market in Bangkok, Warorot Market in Chiang Mai, and Chatchuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok.
13. Are there any rooftop dining options with a view in Hat Yai?
Yes, there are several rooftop dining options in Hat Yai that offer beautiful views of the city. Some popular options include:1. The SKY Lounge (S Hadyai Hotel): This newly opened rooftop restaurant offers a panoramic view of the city and serves both Thai and international cuisines.
2. Flora (Lee Gardens Plaza Hotel): Located on the 25th floor, this rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Hat Yai city. They serve a range of Asian, Western, and fusion dishes.
3. Blue Sky: Located at the top floor of Hansa Plaza Hotel, this open-air restaurant offers a breathtaking view of Hat Yai and serves delicious Thai food.
4. Red Coral: Located on the 27th floor of Red Planet Hotel, this restaurant offers spectacular views of the city at night along with authentic Chinese-Thai cuisine.
5. Panorama Restaurant: Situated on the 17th floor of Centara Hotel Hat Yai, this open-air restaurant boasts an impressive view of the city skyline. They serve a variety of Thai dishes.
Some other notable rooftop dining options include The Roof Grand Odeon and Rooftop Banquet & Conference Center (Buri Sriphu Boutique Hotel).
14. What are some must-visit street food markets or night markets for foodies?
1. Jalan Alor Food Street (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia): This bustling street is lined with hundreds of food carts and stalls serving a variety of Malaysian dishes.
2. Shilin Night Market (Taipei, Taiwan): One of the largest night markets in Taipei, Shilin offers a wide range of Taiwanese street food including stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, and bubble tea.
3. Gwangjang Market (Seoul, South Korea): This popular market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food such as gimbap (rice rolls) and bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes).
4. Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam): This famous market offers a diverse selection of Vietnamese street food including pho noodles, banh mi sandwiches, and fresh seafood.
5. Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok, Thailand): Along with shopping for clothes and souvenirs, visitors can sample a variety of Thai street food at this massive weekend market.
6. Djemaa el Fna (Marrakech, Morocco): This lively square transforms into a vibrant night market filled with Moroccan dishes like tagine and shawarma.
7. La Boqueria Market (Barcelona, Spain): Located on the popular Las Ramblas boulevard, this market offers some of the best tapas and fresh produce in the city.
8. Borough Market (London, UK): Known as one of the oldest markets in London, Borough Market is a must-visit for foodies looking to try traditional British treats like fish and chips or Scotch eggs.
9. Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (Chiang Mai, Thailand): This sprawling night bazaar features an array of Thai street food along with handicrafts and clothing.
10. Nishiki Market (Kyoto, Japan): Also known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this narrow indoor market is filled with local food vendors selling fresh seafood, traditional sweets, and more.
11. Pike Place Market (Seattle, USA): This iconic market is a food lover’s paradise with its famous fishmongers, local farmers’ produce, and eclectic mix of eateries.
12. La Petite France (Strasbourg, France): This charming neighborhood in Strasbourg is home to a lively market full of regional specialties like tarte flambée and choucroute (sauerkraut).
13. Mercado de San Miguel (Madrid, Spain): Housed in a stunning glass structure, this gourmet market offers a variety of Spanish tapas and drinks.
14. Chomp Chomp Food Centre (Singapore): This hawker center is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to try Singaporean street food like chili crab and laksa noodles.
15. Is street food generally safe to eat in Hat Yai?
Street food in Hat Yai is generally safe to eat, as long as you take usual precautions such as choosing stalls with clean and hygienic practices, avoiding raw or uncooked food, and making sure your food is cooked thoroughly. However, as with any street food destination, there is always a risk of food contamination, so it’s important to use your own judgment and be cautious.
16. Where can I find halal food options in the city?
There are many halal food options in the city, depending on your location and preferred cuisine. Some popular options include:1. Halal Guys – serves Middle Eastern food like chicken gyros and falafel
2. Curry Hill – a neighborhood in Manhattan known for its numerous halal Indian restaurants
3. Mamoun’s Falafel – serves traditional Middle Eastern fare like falafel and shawarma
4. Kebab Empire – Turkish restaurant serving a variety of kebabs
5. Cafe Kashkar – Uzbek restaurant with a variety of halal meat dishes
6. Maoz Vegetarian – offers vegetarian falafel wraps and salads
7. Brick Lane Curry House – Indian restaurant with many halal options on their menu.
It is also worth noting that many restaurants in the city may not be strictly halal-certified but do offer non-pork options or claim to use halal meat in their dishes. Be sure to double-check with the restaurant staff before ordering if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.
17. Are there any restaurants specializing in Chinese or Malay cuisine?
Yes, there are several restaurants specializing in Chinese and Malay cuisine. Some popular options include Din Tai Fung for Chinese food and PappaRich for Malaysian dishes. Other options include Old Chang Kee, Paradise Dynasty, and Hawker Chan.
18. Can I find international cuisine, such as Italian or Japanese, in Hat Yai?
Yes, there are a variety of international cuisine options in Hat Yai, including Italian and Japanese restaurants. Some popular Italian restaurants include La Trattoria Pizzeria and Paragon Italian Pizza, while popular Japanese options include Fuji Japanese Restaurant and Kyoto Japanese Restaurant.
19.Aside from traditional Thai dishes, what other international cuisines are popularly served in the city?
Some popular international cuisines served in the city include Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Indian, American, and French cuisine. There are also many fusion restaurants that combine different international flavors and cooking styles. Additionally, with a large expat community and international tourism, there is a variety of food options from countries such as Vietnam, Korea, Mexico, and Brazil.
20.How late do most restaurants and street food stalls stay open at night?
Most restaurants and street food stalls stay open until late at night, usually until around 10 or 11 pm. Some may even stay open until midnight or later, especially in highly populated areas with a thriving nightlife scene. However, this can vary depending on the location and type of establishment.