1. What are some of the best local restaurants in Ayutthaya for traditional Thai cuisine?
1. Baan Khun Mae: This restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and soups. It is known for its authentic flavors and warm atmosphere.
2. Chao Phrom Market: This market is a hidden gem for local food in Ayutthaya. Here you can find a variety of street food and authentic Thai dishes at affordable prices.
3. Tamarind Cafe & Restaurant: Located in an old house, this restaurant serves up delicious traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist. Their signature dish is the “tamarind chicken.”
4. Nai Nang Nok: This riverside restaurant specializes in seafood dishes and is popular among locals for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.
5. Krungsri River Hotel Terrace Restaurant: This open-air restaurant offers stunning views of the river while serving up traditional Thai cuisine with a contemporary flair.
6. Kun-Chang-Hui: This family-run restaurant showcases the rich flavors of northern Thai cuisine with its spicy salads, sizzling hotpots, and other regional specialties.
7. Wattana Panich: Famous for their boat noodles (kway teow ruea), this restaurant has been serving customers for over 60 years and is a favorite among locals.
8. Ruen Ton Hom: Known for its cozy ambiance and traditional decor, this restaurant serves up classic Thai dishes such as pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup.
9. Jinda Garden Riverside Restaurant: Set in a beautiful garden setting by the river, Jinda Garden offers both authentic Thai cuisine and European-inspired creations using locally-sourced ingredients.
10. Jub Chan Swim Restaurant & Resort: A must-visit for seafood lovers, this floating restaurant allows diners to enjoy their meal while taking in the picturesque views of the river and surrounding nature.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dining options available in Ayutthaya?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes in Ayutthaya that offer vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular choices include:
1. Baan Teelanka: This restaurant serves traditional Thai dishes with a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.
2. Chusri Restaurant: This cozy eatery offers delicious vegan versions of classic Thai dishes, as well as a few international options.
3. MaiMai Home Vegetarian Restaurant: Located in a peaceful garden setting, this restaurant serves an array of flavorful vegetarian and vegan dishes.
4. Cafe Amazon: This cafe chain offers a separate vegetarian menu that includes sandwiches, salads, and other light meals.
5. Poppy’s Home-cooked Meals: A small Thai restaurant that serves authentic home-cooked dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.
In addition to these places, many street food stalls also offer vegetarian or vegan options such as tofu stir-fries, vegetable spring rolls, and fruit smoothies. Additionally, some shops sell plant-based snacks like banana chips or roasted nuts.
3. Are there any street food markets in Ayutthaya that are worth checking out?
There are several street food markets in Ayutthaya that are worth checking out, including the popular Chao Phrom Night Market and Wang Chan Night Market. These markets offer a variety of local dishes such as pad Thai, grilled seafood, and traditional desserts. Another must-visit market is the Roti Market, which specializes in delicious crispy roti filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Additionally, the Ayutthaya Floating Market offers a unique experience with vendors selling food from boats on the river.
4. Can you recommend any local specialties or must-try dishes in Ayutthaya?
Some local specialties and must-try dishes in Ayutthaya include:– Khao Tang Na Tang – a flavorful dish of fried rice served with various toppings, such as pork floss, shrimp, and vegetables.
– Boat Noodle Soup (Kuay Teow Ruea) – a popular street food dish consisting of small bowls of noodles in a savory broth with pork or beef slices, bean sprouts, and herbs.
– Mee Krob – crispy fried noodles served with sweet and sour sauce, often topped with shrimp or chicken.
– Tom Yam Kung – a spicy and sour soup made with lemongrass, galangal, chili peppers, lime juice, and shrimp.
– Plaa Chon Phlaphla – grilled snakehead fish served with a dipping sauce made from fermented fish paste.
– Roti Sai Mae Toon – a sweet flatbread filled with condensed milk and banana or other fruits.
– Salapao (steamed buns) – popular snack stuffed with savory fillings like minced pork or vegetables.
5. Do any restaurants in Ayutthaya offer a scenic view while dining?
Yes, there are several restaurants in Ayutthaya that offer a scenic view while dining, including:
1. The Ayodhya Floating Market – This restaurant offers a beautiful view of the river and the surrounding landscape as it is situated on a floating barge.
2. Baan Krachao View – This restaurant is located on a pier overlooking the Chao Phraya River and offers stunning views of the sunset.
3. Malakrick Restaurant – This riverside restaurant not only offers delicious food but also provides a panoramic view of the river and nearby temples.
4. Bang Ian Riverside Restaurant – Located along the banks of the Pasak River, this restaurant offers a serene setting with views of lush greenery and traditional Thai houses.
5. Pop Star Drawing Cafe & Restaurant – This unique cafe features rooftop seating with beautiful views of Wat Phra Si Sanphet and other ancient ruins.
6. Ban U Thong Waterfront Restaurant – Set along the bank of Khlong Sra Bua, this restaurant offers peaceful views of the waterway and nearby temples.
Overall, there are many restaurants in Ayutthaya that combine delicious food with stunning views, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
6. What are some popular seafood restaurants in Ayutthaya?
1. Kom Khun Kradin – Located on the Chao Phraya River with a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes.
2. Krua Asarasin – A popular restaurant serving authentic Ayutthaya-style cuisine, including seafood dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
3. Bang Ian Seafood Restaurant – This open-air restaurant specializes in a variety of seafood options, including fresh river prawns and fish.
4. Weng Plee Hotpot and Seafood – Known for their delicious hot pot dishes and fresh seafood, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
5. Baan Aleed Seafood Restaurant – Offering a picturesque setting and an extensive menu of seafood dishes, this restaurant is a must-try for seafood lovers.
6. Le Grand Prince Restaurant & Bar – Overlooking the Ayutthaya historical park, this upscale restaurant offers a wide selection of fresh seafood delicacies.
7. Jai Somboon Seafood Ayutthaya – A branch of the famous Bangkok-based seafood chain, this restaurant features an impressive variety of local seafood specialties.
8. Ruan Ton Nam Riverside Dining – Situated right on the water’s edge, this cozy restaurant serves up delicious Thai-style seafood platters and other traditional dishes.
9. The Orchid House Floating Market Restaurant – Located within the floating market in Ayutthaya, this charming eatery offers a unique dining experience with a variety of seafood options.
10. Khong Siam Riverside Dining – With panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River and delectable seafood dishes like grilled river prawns, this riverside restaurant is a top choice for many visitors to Ayutthaya.
7. Is it safe to eat street food in Ayutthaya?
It is generally safe to eat street food in Ayutthaya as long as you take the necessary precautions, such as choosing vendors with clean and hygienic stalls, selecting foods that are cooked thoroughly and served hot, and avoiding foods that have been left out for too long. It is also recommended to stick to popular and busy areas where the turnover of food is high. If you have any concerns about the cleanliness of a street food vendor, it may be best to avoid eating there.
8. Are there any famous dishes that originated from Ayutthaya?
Yes, there are several famous dishes that originated from Ayutthaya, including:1. Sai Krok Isan: A fermented pork sausage commonly found in the northeast region of Thailand but believed to have originated in Ayutthaya.
2. Makahm Thet: A sour and spicy minced pork dish made with tamarind, chili peppers, shallots, and garlic. It is commonly served with steamed rice.
3. Pla Salid Tod: Fried crispy snakehead fish served with a tangy dipping sauce made from sugar, vinegar, and chopped shallots.
4. Kanom Takoh: A traditional Thai dessert made from coconut milk and rice flour steamed in small cups and topped with shredded coconut meat.
5. Guay Tiew Kua Gai: Also known as Ayutthaya-style chicken noodles, this dish features stir-fried flat rice noodles with egg, chicken, and vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
6. Nam-Dtok Moo: This spicy soup is made with sliced grilled pork, roasted rice powder, herbs, and lime juice for a refreshing and savory flavor.
7. Khanom Chun: A popular Thai snack consisting of bite-sized morsels of sweetened sticky rice filled with shredded coconut meat wrapped in banana leaves.
8. Grilled tilapia fish (Pla Nil): Juicy tilapia fish marinated in garlic-lemongrass oil before being grilled to perfection over charcoal fire.
9. What is the average price range for meals at local restaurants in Ayutthaya?
The average price range for meals at local restaurants in Ayutthaya is between 50-300 Thai Baht. Prices may vary depending on the type of restaurant, location, and dishes ordered. Street food and food from small roadside stalls can be found for as low as 20-30 Thai Baht per dish. Fine dining restaurant prices can range from 500-1500 Thai Baht per meal.
10. Are there any good options for fine dining or upscale restaurants in the city?
Yes, there are plenty of good options for fine dining and upscale restaurants in the city. Some popular choices include:
1. Le Bernardin – a renowned seafood restaurant with a Michelin three-star rating.
2. Eleven Madison Park – a globally-influenced restaurant with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and culinary innovation.
3. Per Se – a fine dining American restaurant with French influences, also with a Michelin three-star rating.
4. Jean-Georges – an elegant French-influenced restaurant known for its creative and modern dishes.
5. Daniel – a high-end French eatery with classic dishes and impeccable service.
6. Blue Hill at Stone Barns – located just outside of the city, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a picturesque setting.
7. The Modern – featuring an elegant atmosphere and upscale New American cuisine.
8. Del Posto – known for its exquisite Italian food and extensive wine list.
9. Marea – specializing in elevated Italian seafood dishes.
10. Gramercy Tavern – featuring refined American cuisine made with local and sustainable ingredients.
Prices for these restaurants vary, but expect to spend around $100 or more per person for a full meal with drinks. Reservations are often necessary at these popular establishments, so it’s recommended to plan ahead.
11. Where can I find the best pad thai in Ayutthaya?
One highly rated restaurant for pad thai in Ayutthaya is “Pad Thai Sala.” It is located on Rojana Road and is known for their flavorful and well-balanced pad thai dishes. Other top options include “Ban Kao Pad Thai” and “Arunraj Pad Thai.”
12. Is it common to tip at restaurants in Ayuttahya, and if so, how much is appropriate?
Yes, it is common to tip at restaurants in Ayuttahya. A tip of 10-15% of the total bill is considered appropriate.
13. Is it possible to find international cuisine such as Italian or Japanese food in Ayutthaya?
Yes, it is possible to find international cuisine such as Italian or Japanese food in Ayutthaya. There are several restaurants and cafes that serve these types of cuisine in the city, especially in the tourist areas. Some popular options include Cabbages & Condoms (Italian/Thai fusion), Sala Rim Nam Restaurant (Thai/Asian/Western fusion), and Fuji Japanese Restaurant.
14. Are there any rooftop bars or restaurants with a great view of the city’s landmarks?
Yes, there are several rooftop bars and restaurants in the city with fantastic views of the city’s landmarks. Some popular ones include:
1. The Roof at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline.
2. Westlight at The William Vale: Located in Williamsburg, this rooftop bar has panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
3. Refinery Rooftop: This rooftop bar in Midtown offers beautiful views of the Empire State Building.
4. Top of the Strand: Situated on top of the Strand Hotel, this rooftop bar boasts great views of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.
5. The Press Lounge: Located in Hell’s Kitchen, this rooftop bar offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and Midtown skyline.
6. Mr. Purple at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side: This trendy rooftop bar has impressive views of Lower Manhattan and the Williamsburg Bridge.
7. Upstairs at The Kimberly: This upscale rooftop lounge has stunning views of the Chrysler Building and Midtown skyline.
8. Birreria at Eataly Flatiron: This Italian restaurant and brewery has a lovely roof deck with views overlooking Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building.
15. Are reservations required at popular dining spots, especially during peak tourist season?
It is always recommended to make reservations at popular dining spots, especially during peak tourist season, as they tend to be more crowded and have high demand for tables. This can help ensure that you are able to secure a table at your desired time and location. Some restaurants may have a policy of accepting walk-in customers only, but it is still advisable to call ahead or make a reservation if possible.
16. Can I find halal food options around Ayutthaya for Muslim travelers?
Yes, there are several halal food options available in Ayutthaya for Muslim travelers. Some of the popular restaurants offering halal food include Baan Kaicarm Restaurant, Baan Keang Rajini Thai Halal Food, and Roti by Jelomalu. Additionally, many local street food stalls also serve halal dishes such as grilled meats, seafood, and noodle dishes. It is always recommended to confirm the halal status of the food with the restaurant or vendor before ordering.
17. Where is the best area to experience a traditional Thai dinner show or cultural performance while dining?
The best area to experience a traditional Thai dinner show or cultural performance while dining would be in Bangkok, specifically at a venue like the Siam Niramit Theater or the Asiatique waterfront market. These locations offer immersive performances that showcase Thai culture and cuisine. 18. Do most restaurants accept credit cards, or should I have cash on hand when dining out?
Most restaurants in the US accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well. Some smaller or independently-owned restaurants may only accept cash, so it is always a good idea to check beforehand or ask your server. Additionally, some restaurants may have a minimum amount required for credit card purchases, so having some cash can be convenient in those situations.
19. How do I order food if I don’t speak Thai? Do menus have English translations available?
1. Order through a food delivery app or website: There are many food delivery apps and websites available in Thailand, such as GrabFood, Foodpanda, and Line Man. These apps usually have an English interface and menus with English translations available.
2. Use translation apps: You can use translation apps like Google Translate or Papago to translate the menu into English. Simply take a photo of the menu using the app and it will provide you with a translation.
3. Learn some key phrases: It would be helpful to learn some basic Thai phrases related to ordering food, such as “Sawadee ka/krap” (Hello), “Aroy dee ka/krap” (Delicious), and “Kor tor ka/krap” (Thank you). This will make it easier for you to communicate with the staff.
4. Ask for help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from the staff or other customers in the restaurant. Many Thai people can speak basic English and would be happy to assist you.
5. Look for restaurants with an English menu: Some restaurants that cater to tourists may have an English menu available. Look out for signs that say “English Menu” or ask the staff if they have one available.
6. Pointing: If all else fails, you can simply point at the dishes that you want on the menu or in display cases if they are visible.
7. Take photos of menus: If you find a dish that you like but cannot communicate its name, take a photo of the dish or menu so that you can show it to restaurant staff in future situations.
8. Ask your hotel concierge or tour guide: Your hotel concierge or tour guide may be able to recommend local restaurants with English menus or assist with ordering food for you.