1. What are some popular local dishes in Khon Kaen that tourists should try?
Some popular local dishes in Khon Kaen that tourists should try include:
1. Som Tam (green papaya salad): A spicy and refreshing salad made with shredded green papaya, cherry tomatoes, peanuts, chili peppers, and lime juice.
2. Laab (spicy minced meat salad): Usually made with minced pork or chicken, this dish is flavored with herbs, spices, and lime juice.
3. Khao Niaow Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers with sticky rice): This street food snack consists of tender marinated pork skewers served with sticky rice and a sweet dipping sauce.
4. Tom Sab Gai (spicy chicken soup): A spicy and tangy soup made with chicken broth, lemongrass, chili peppers, and a variety of other herbs and spices.
5. Gaeng Pu Bai Cha Plu (stir-fried crab meat in cha plu leaves): This dish features delicate crab meat stir-fried with cha plu leaves, garlic, and traditional Thai seasonings.
6. Khao Jee (grilled sticky rice): Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes over an open fire gives it a unique smoky flavor.
7. Sai Krok Isan (Northeastern Thai sausages): These sour fermented pork sausages are a popular street food in the region.
8. Moo Tod Krathiem Prik Thai (garlic and pepper fried pork): Pork pieces are marinated in garlic and black pepper before being deep-fried to crispy perfection.
9. Pad Grapow (stir-fried holy basil with meat or seafood): A simple yet flavorful dish made by stir-frying meat or seafood with holy basil leaves, chili peppers, garlic, and oyster sauce.
10. Khao Niaow Ma Muang (mango sticky rice): A classic dessert made with ripe mangoes served over sweet coconut sticky rice topped with a drizzle of condensed milk.
2. Are there any restaurants or food stalls that offer traditional Isan cuisine in Khon Kaen?
Yes, there are many restaurants and food stalls in Khon Kaen that offer traditional Isan cuisine. Some popular options include:
1. Somtam Nong Tum: This restaurant is known for its delicious som tam (papaya salad) and other classic Isan dishes such as larb (minced meat salad) and tom saep (spicy and sour soup).
2. Krua Luang: A long-standing favorite among locals, this restaurant serves up authentic Isan dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
3. Chom Suan: Located in the Night Bazaar area, Chom Suan offers a wide variety of classic Isan dishes as well as seafood and grilled meats.
4. Boonsong Isaan Food: This humble food stall is famous for its mouth-watering gaeng om neua (Isan-style beef curry) and other hearty Isan dishes.
5. Jaru Pochana: Specializing in khao man gai (chicken rice), this restaurant also offers a range of Isan specialties such as pla raad prik (grilled fish with chili paste) and kao tod naam khao tod maafai (fried rice balls).
6. Bua Khao Rim Nam: Set on the banks of a small lake, this restaurant serves up delicious Isan dishes alongside stunning views. Don’t miss their gai yang (grilled chicken) or som tum poo plaa raa (papaya salad with fermented fish sauce).
3. Where can I find the best som tam (papaya salad) in Khon Kaen?
One popular spot for som tam in Khon Kaen is “Som Tam Nittaya,” located on Prachasanti Road. Another highly-rated option is “Kaoket Som Tam,” which has multiple locations throughout the city. Both of these restaurants offer a variety of som tam dishes, made with fresh ingredients and customizable spice levels to suit your taste. Alternatively, you can also try the local markets or street food stalls for a more authentic and affordable som tam experience.
4. Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in Khon Kaen?
Yes, there are a few vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in Khon Kaen. Here are some options:
1) Greenway Vegetarian Restaurant – They offer a variety of mock meat dishes and traditional Thai dishes made with tofu or vegetables.
2) Veg-In Kitchen – This restaurant specializes in vegan food, with options like vegan burgers and wraps, as well as traditional Thai dishes made with non-meat ingredients.
3) The Barn – They offer a mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, but have a separate menu for vegetarians/vegans that includes salads, soups, and main dishes.
4) Pop Up Restaurant – This restaurant offers plant-based versions of popular Thai dishes, as well as international cuisine like sushi rolls and burgers.
5) Together Town Cafe & Bakery – They have a selection of vegetarian and vegan lunch sets featuring dishes like stir-fried vegetables, curries, and salads.
It’s also worth noting that many Thai restaurants will have some vegetarian options available upon request or can accommodate dietary restrictions. It’s always best to communicate your preferences to the staff to ensure you get a suitable meal.
5. Can you recommend a good street food market or night market in Khon Kaen?
There are a few great options for street food and night markets in Khon Kaen. Here are three popular ones:
1. Ton Tann Night Bazaar: This market is open every day from 5pm to midnight and offers a wide variety of street food, including local dishes, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and Thai desserts. It also has stalls selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
2. Khon Kaen Walking Street: Held on Saturdays from 4pm to 10pm, this market features traditional performances, handicrafts, and plenty of delicious street food options. It’s a great place to try some authentic Isan cuisine.
3. Pratunam Khon Kaen: This night market is open daily from 6pm to midnight and offers a mix of food vendors, clothing stores, and live music performances. There are also many seating areas where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the lively atmosphere. Be sure to try the grilled chicken or som tam (spicy papaya salad) here!
6. What is the must-try dessert in Khon Kaen?
The must-try dessert in Khon Kaen is “khanom mo kaeng”. It is a sweet treat made from rice flour, coconut milk, and palm sugar, topped with grated coconut. It can be found at local markets or street food vendors throughout the city. Other popular desserts in Khon Kaen include mango sticky rice and taro pudding. 7. Are there any famous seafood restaurants near the city center of Khon Kaen?
Yes, there are several well-known seafood restaurants located near the city center of Khon Kaen, including:
1. Nongkhai Seafood – a popular restaurant offering a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes
2. Thaiksao Rimnam Seafood – known for their delicious grilled fish and authentic Thai flavors
3. Pla Lai – famous for its giant steamed seafood platters and spicy seafood soups
4. Kratuan Seafood – a local favorite for its flavorful stir-fried dishes and seafood BBQ options
5. Baan Rabiang Nam Restaurant – specializing in river prawn and crab dishes cooked with traditional Thai herbs and spices.
8. Is it safe to eat street food in Khon Kaen?
As with any street food, there is always a risk of potential food-borne illness. However, street food in Khon Kaen is generally considered safe as long as you take precautions such as choosing stalls with a steady stream of customers, watching how the food is prepared and cooked, and avoiding raw or undercooked meats. It is also recommended to drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks from street vendors.
9. What is a typical breakfast dish in this region?
A typical breakfast dish in this region may include a bread or pastry such as croissants, pastries filled with cheese or jam, or a baguette with butter and jam. Other common dishes may include scrambled eggs, omelettes, crepes, or pancakes with toppings such as fruit, Nutella, or honey. Another popular option is a breakfast sandwich made with ham and melted cheese on a baguette. Traditional French breakfast drinks may include coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or orange juice.
10. Can you recommend any local cafes or coffee shops with unique flavors?
1. Antidote Coffee Co. – known for their specialty coffees and matcha lattes
2. Houndstooth Coffee – offers rotating single-origin coffees from around the world
3. Patika – has a unique coffee blend infused with lavender and honey
4. Folklores Coffee House – a cozy cafe that serves creative drinks like “Dirty Chai” and “Buttered Date Latte”
5. Jester King Brewery – not your traditional coffee shop, but they serve a delicious cold brew made with their own beer
6. Flat Track Coffee – try their varieties of pour-over coffee or the “Mocha Nut Old Fashioned” made with macadamia nut milk
7. Revival Coffee – serves up unique flavors like lavender vanilla latte and turmeric golden milk latte
8. Fleet Coffee Co. – offers unique flavors like their spicy mocha made with cayenne pepper
9. Seventh Flag Coffee Co.- known for their nitro cold brew on tap, which can be flavored with vanilla or lavender syrup
10. Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden- go for the boozy coffee drinks, like the Baileys Nitro Cold Brew or the Espresso Martini Slushie
11. Is there a specific type of rice that is commonly served with meals in Khon Kaen?
The most common type of rice served with meals in Khon Kaen is jasmine rice, also known as fragrant or Thai Hom Mali rice. It has a slightly sticky texture and a subtle floral aroma. Other types of rice, such as brown or sticky rice, may also be served depending on the dish being prepared.
12. Are there any dishes that use insects as ingredients, and where can I try them?
Yes, there are several dishes that use insects as ingredients, these include:
1. Chapulines (grasshoppers) – a popular dish in Oaxaca, Mexico. They are fried and seasoned with lime, garlic and chili powder.
2. Escamoles (ant larvae) – a delicacy in central Mexico, often served as a filling for tacos or in omelettes.
3. Sago Delight (sago worms) – a traditional dish in Sarawak, Borneo. The larvae of sago palm weevil are fried with spices and served as an appetizer.
4. Fried silkworm pupae – commonly found on menus in Korea and China, they are boiled, seasoned with soy sauce and spices, then deep-fried.
5. Deep-fried crickets – a popular street food in Thailand, they are often flavored with salt and pepper or other seasonings.
You can try these dishes at specialty restaurants that focus on incorporating insects into their cuisine or at local street markets and festivals where they are sold as snacks or part of traditional cuisine.
13.Can you suggest a restaurant with a great view of the city while dining?
One option could be The Top of the Hub in Boston, Massachusetts. This restaurant is located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower and offers stunning views of the city while dining on delicious food. Other options may include restaurants with rooftop or waterfront dining options, such as 360 at the CN Tower in Toronto or River Café in Brooklyn, New York.
14.Is Pad Thai readily available at most restaurants around the city?
In major cities, Pad Thai is usually readily available at most Thai or Asian restaurants. In smaller cities, it may not be as common but can usually be found at Thai restaurants or those that specialize in international cuisine.
15.Are there any famous regional dishes that are unique to Khon Kaen?
Yes, there are a few well-known regional dishes that are unique to Khon Kaen. Some examples include khao kai moo (rice with pork leg), som tam mueang (spicy papaya salad with fermented fish), and laab ped udon (duck meat salad with flat noodles). These dishes often use local ingredients and have a distinct taste that sets them apart from versions found in other regions of Thailand.
16.What is your favorite place to get affordable yet delicious meals?
My favorite place to get affordable yet delicious meals is a local Thai restaurant. They have a variety of dishes that are reasonably priced and always taste amazing. Plus, their portions are generous so I never leave feeling hungry.
17.Are there any street food specialties I should look out for when exploring the city?
Yes, there are several street food specialties you should try when exploring the city. Some popular options include:
1. Hot Dogs: New York is famous for its hot dog carts and stands, serving up delicious all-beef hot dogs with a variety of toppings such as sauerkraut, mustard, and onions.
2. Pretzels: Soft pretzels are a staple on many street corners in NYC, often served with mustard or cheese dip for a tasty snack.
3. Halal Cart Chicken and Rice: This Middle Eastern-inspired dish features grilled chicken over rice with a variety of sauces to choose from, and has become an iconic street food in the city.
4. Pizza Slices: You can’t visit New York without trying a slice of their famous thin-crust pizza from one of the many pizzerias scattered throughout the city.
5. Falafel: Another popular Middle Eastern street food option is falafel, deep-fried chickpea balls served in pita bread with salad and sauce.
6. Bagels: New York-style bagels are known for being larger and chewier than other varieties, often topped with cream cheese or lox.
7. Donuts: From classic glazed to unique flavors like rainbow sprinkles or bacon maple, New York City has some amazing donut shops that you can grab on-the-go.
8. Egg Cream Soda: This classic NYC drink is made with milk, seltzer water, and flavored syrup (usually chocolate) for a refreshing treat while exploring the city streets.
9. Churros: These fried dough pastries covered in cinnamon sugar are a beloved street food in many Latin-American countries and can be found at street fairs and markets throughout the city.
10. Bubble Tea: For those looking for something sweet and refreshing, bubble tea – a Taiwanese drink made with iced tea and chewy tapioca pearls – has gained popularity in recent years and can be found at many street vendors.
18.Can you recommend a restaurant for trying traditional Northeastern Thai cuisine?
One popular option for trying traditional Northeastern Thai cuisine is Lamduan Riverside Restaurant in Khon Kaen. They specialize in dishes from the Isan region, such as spicy salads (som tum) and grilled meats (moo ping). The restaurant also offers a waterfront dining experience, adding to the overall ambiance.
19.Where can I find good options for international cuisine in Khon Kaen?
1. Potters Restaurant & Bar: This restaurant is known for its international fusion cuisine, combining Thai and Western flavors in their dishes.
2. The Lobby: Located in the Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel, this restaurant offers a variety of international dishes, including Italian, Japanese, and Thai cuisine.
3. Dalaabaa: Specializing in Spanish tapas and wine, Dalaabaa also offers a range of other international dishes such as pasta, burgers, and steaks.
4. Ban Kaeng Lao Seafood Restaurant: This popular eatery serves up delicious seafood from Laos and other international cuisines like Vietnamese and Chinese.
5. Crave House Restaurant: Offering both indoor and outdoor seating with a cozy atmosphere, Crave House has an extensive menu featuring international favorites like pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and sushi.
6. Steak Chef Jang: As the name suggests, this restaurant serves up fantastic steaks alongside a variety of international dishes including Korean BBQ and seafood platters.
7. La Terrace: This chic restaurant offers high-quality French cuisine with a Thai twist in a beautiful setting overlooking a man-made lake.
8. Sizzler: This well-known chain of international restaurants is loved by locals for their all-you-can-eat salad bar along with grilled meats and seafood dishes.
9. Takumi Modern Cuisine & Bar: Specializing in Japanese fusion cuisine, this restaurant also offers options from other cuisines like Mexican and Thai for those looking for something different.
10. Retro Cafe & Bar: Located within the vibrant community of Khon Kaen’s Creative City Zone (K-City), this cafe offers international comfort food ranging from pasta to burgers to Asian-inspired dishes.
20.What’s the difference between Northern and Northeastern Thai cuisine, and where can I find both types of dishes in Khon Kaen?
Northern Thai cuisine, also known as Lanna cuisine, is influenced by neighboring countries like Myanmar and China. It typically uses more dried spices, herbs, and fermented ingredients like shrimp paste.
Northeastern Thai cuisine, also known as Isan cuisine, is heavily influenced by Laos and has a stronger emphasis on fresh herbs and vegetables. Dishes tend to be spicy and sour, with a heavy use of lime juice and chili peppers.
In Khon Kaen, you can find both Northern and Northeastern Thai dishes at local street food stalls, markets, and restaurants. Some recommended places for Northern Thai dishes include Par Kang Domlam in the Old Town area and Kitchen Hug in Klang Plaza Mall. For Northeastern Thai dishes, try Gai Yang Toh Puan restaurant or the Noodle House at Khon Kaen University.