1. What are the most popular local dishes in Pattaya?
Some of the most popular local dishes in Pattaya include:
1. Pad Thai – stir-fried rice noodles with a variety of ingredients such as eggs, tofu, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
2. Tom Yum Goong – a spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.
3. Som Tam – a spicy green papaya salad often served with grilled chicken or sticky rice.
4. Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken) – marinated chicken grilled over charcoal and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
5. Massaman Curry – a rich and flavorful curry made with coconut milk, meat (usually beef or chicken), potatoes, onions, and spices like cumin and coriander.
6. Khao Pad (Fried Rice) – fried rice with a variety of meats or seafood and vegetables.
7. Pla Pao (Grilled Fish) – fresh fish stuffed with herbs and grilled until crispy on the outside.
8. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) – marinated pork skewers grilled over charcoal and served with sticky rice and a sweet dipping sauce.
9. Larb (Spicy Meat Salad) – minced meat mixed with fresh herbs, spices, lime juice, and chili peppers.
10. Khao Niao Mamuang (Mango Sticky Rice) – a popular dessert made with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and served with ripe mangoes on top.
2. Which restaurants in the area offer the best seafood options?
There are many great seafood restaurants in the area, but here are a few that are highly recommended:
1. Legal Sea Foods – This popular chain restaurant offers a variety of fresh and delicious seafood dishes, including their famous New England clam chowder.
2. Row 34 – Known for its oyster bar and extensive selection of locally sourced seafood, this restaurant is a must-try for seafood lovers.
3. The Barking Crab – Located on the waterfront, this casual eatery serves up fresh seafood with stunning views of the harbor.
4. Atlantic Fish Company – This upscale restaurant has been serving high-quality seafood dishes for over 40 years and offers an impressive wine list to pair with your meal.
5. Yankee Lobster Co. – Featured on popular TV shows such as Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, this no-frills spot is known for its lobster rolls and other classic New England seafood dishes.
6. Ostra – For a more refined dining experience, head to this elegant restaurant specializing in contemporary Mediterranean seafood dishes.
7. Island Creek Oyster Bar – Another popular oyster destination, this award-winning restaurant also serves up other delectable seafood options like lobster rolls and scallop crudo.
3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan restaurants in Pattaya?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Pattaya, including:
1. Siamburifood Vegan House – offers a variety of Thai and international vegan dishes
2. Vegetarian Resource Center – serves traditional Chinese vegetarian food
3. Lifeway Cafe – specializes in vegetarian and raw food meals
4. Annapurna Indian Restaurant – has a separate vegetarian menu with a variety of Indian dishes
5. Oishi Vegetarian Garden – offers organic and vegetarian options with a focus on local Thai ingredients
6. Maya Vegetarian Kitchen – serves Indian-inspired cuisine using only plant-based ingredients
7. Health Oasis Resort & Detox Wellness Center – specializes in raw, vegan, and vegetarian options for those looking to detoxify
8. Rungruang Vegetarian Restaurant – known for its affordable and delicious vegetarian Thai dishes.
4. Can you recommend a good place for street food in Pattaya?
One of the most popular and highly recommended places for street food in Pattaya is the Jomtien Night Market. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious and affordable Thai dishes such as pad thai, grilled seafood, noodle soups, and more. Other notable places for street food include Soi Buakhao market and Walking Street.
5. Is there a particular neighborhood or area known for its dining scene in Pattaya?
The dining scene in Pattaya is spread throughout the entire city, but there are a few areas that are known for their concentration of restaurants and diverse culinary offerings. These areas include:
1. Walking Street: This popular street is lined with numerous restaurants serving a variety of cuisines, ranging from Thai and seafood to international dishes.
2. Soi Buakhao: Located in North Pattaya, this street is known for its budget-friendly eateries, offering both Thai and Western food options.
3. Na Kluea: This neighborhood near the beach is popular among locals and tourists alike for its fresh seafood restaurants.
4. Naklua: Another area known for its seafood restaurants, Naklua also boasts a mix of upscale fine dining establishments and casual local eateries.
5. Jomtien Beach: This beachfront area has a wide range of dining options, from traditional Thai street food to international chains and upscale restaurants.
Overall, Pattaya’s dining scene offers something for everyone, no matter what neighborhood you are in.
6. What is the average cost of a meal at a typical restaurant in Pattaya?
The average cost of a meal at a typical restaurant in Pattaya can vary depending on the type of cuisine and location. However, on average, a meal for one person can cost between 100-300 baht (approximately $3-9 USD) at a local restaurant. At more upscale or tourist-oriented restaurants, the price can range from 300-800 baht (approximately $9-25 USD) per person.
7. Where can I find authentic Thai food in Pattaya?
There are many places in Pattaya where you can find authentic Thai food, including:
1. Local markets and street food vendors: These are some of the best places to experience authentic Thai food at affordable prices.
2. Family-owned restaurants: Many family-owned restaurants serve traditional Thai dishes passed down through generations.
3. Authentic Thai restaurants: There are several restaurants in Pattaya that specialize in traditional Thai cuisine.
4. Food courts in malls: Many malls in Pattaya have a dedicated food court with a variety of stalls offering authentic Thai dishes.
5. Floating markets: The floating markets in and around Pattaya offer a unique experience and are known for their delicious and authentic Thai food.
6. Cooking classes: For an immersive experience, you can take a cooking class and learn how to prepare authentic Thai dishes from local chefs.
8. Are there any must-try dishes that are unique to Pattaya or Thailand’s cuisine?
Some must-try dishes that are unique to Pattaya and Thailand’s cuisine include:
1. Tom Yum Goong – a spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, and other herbs and spices.
2. Pad Thai – stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, shrimp or chicken, and bean sprouts.
3. Som Tam (green papaya salad) – a spicy and tangy salad made with shredded green papaya, chili peppers, tomatoes, and crushed peanuts.
4. Kai Tod (Thai fried chicken) – marinated chicken pieces deep-fried until crispy on the outside.
5. Massaman Curry – a rich and creamy curry dish made with coconut milk, beef or chicken, potatoes, onions, and roasted peanuts.
6. Laab Moo (spicy minced pork salad) – seasoned ground pork mixed with herbs and spicy dressing.
7. Khao Pad (fried rice) – steamed rice stir-fried with vegetables, meat or seafood of your choice.
8. Mango Sticky Rice – a popular dessert made with sticky rice cooked in coconut milk and served with fresh mango slices on top.
9. What type of international cuisine can be found in Pattaya?
Pattaya offers a wide range of international cuisine, including Thai, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Indian, Italian, Mexican, and American. Additionally, there are also restaurants that specialize in Mediterranean, French, German, British, Russian, and Scandinavian cuisine.
10. Do any restaurants offer a view of the ocean while dining?
Yes, there are many restaurants that offer beautiful views of the ocean while dining. Some examples include The Lido Grand Cove, The Beachcomber Cafe, and The Ocean Deck at Shutters on the Beach.
11. How is the overall cleanliness and hygiene level at local eateries in Pattaya?
The overall cleanliness and hygiene level at local eateries in Pattaya can vary. Some restaurants and food stalls may adhere to strict hygiene standards, while others may not be as clean. It is always recommended to check for visible indicators of cleanliness, such as the appearance of the staff and the general cleanliness of the dining area. Customers can also refer to online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the hygiene level at a particular eatery before dining there.
12. Are there any outdoor dining options available?
Yes, many restaurants offer outdoor dining options, especially during the warmer months. Some may have patio or rooftop seating, while others may set up tables on the sidewalk. You can check with individual restaurants to see if they offer outdoor dining and if reservations are required.
13. What are some popular coffee shops or cafes in Pattaya?
– Starbucks– The Coffee Club
– Black Canyon Coffee
– Amazon Cafe
– True Coffee
– Cafe Amazon
– Dunkin’ Donuts
– Gloria Jean’s Coffees
– The Piazza Mall Cafe
14. Do any restaurants provide live entertainment while dining?
Some restaurants may provide live entertainment while dining, particularly if they have a designated performance space or host special events. This could include live music, comedy shows, or other performances. However, not all restaurants offer this type of entertainment, so it is best to check with the specific restaurant beforehand.
15. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Pattaya?
No, there are currently no Michelin-starred restaurants in Pattaya. The closest city with Michelin-starred restaurants is Bangkok. However, Pattaya does have a number of high-end and award-winning restaurants offering exceptional dining experiences.
16. Can you recommend any affordable but delicious dining options?
1. Food trucks – These often offer delicious and affordable street food options.
2. Local mom-and-pop restaurants – These family-owned establishments often have authentic and budget-friendly dishes.
3. Ethnic grocery stores – Many Asian, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern grocery stores have small in-store cafes or affordable hot food counters where you can try a variety of cultural cuisines.
4. Buffet-style restaurants – All-you-can-eat buffets can be a great option for trying a variety of dishes at an affordable price.
5. Happy hour specials – Many restaurants offer discounted drinks and appetizers during their happy hour, making it a great way to sample different dishes without breaking the bank.
6. Lunch specials – Some restaurants offer lower-priced lunch menus that can include similar items from their dinner menu at a fraction of the cost.
7. Farmer’s markets – Fresh produce and local vendor stalls often offer prepared meals or snacks at reasonable prices.
8. College town restaurants – Areas near college campuses are usually populated with budget-friendly dining options for students, but they can also be great for anyone looking for cheap eats.
9. Carry-out/To-go options – Taking your meal to go can sometimes save you money as many dine-in restaurants charge extra for service and tipping.
10. Food co-ops or community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs- Look into local co-ops or CSA programs where you can sign up for weekly fresh produce boxes, some of which may include recipes and meal ideas.
17.Can visitors easily find English menus at local restaurants around Pattaya?
In general, yes. Pattaya is a popular tourist destination and many restaurants have English menus available for visitors. However, some smaller, more local restaurants may only have Thai menus. It may also be helpful to use translation apps or ask for recommendations from hotel staff if you are struggling to find an English menu at a particular restaurant.
18.What time do most restaurants typically close in the evening?
Most restaurants typically close around 9-10 PM in the evening.
19.Where can I go to try traditional Thai desserts or sweets?
You can try traditional Thai desserts and sweets at traditional markets such as Chatuchak Weekend Market, Talad Rotfai Night Market, Or Tor Kor Market, or at street food stalls in popular areas like Yaowarat (Chinatown) or Sukhumvit.
20.What should visitors know about tipping and paying for meals at restaurants in Pattaya?
When eating at restaurants in Pattaya, it is common to leave a tip of around 10% for good service. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so it is best to check before tipping. Additionally, many restaurants in Pattaya accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street food vendors. Prices in Pattaya can also be negotiable at some restaurants, so don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or bargain.