Pattaya offers a culinary adventure that reflects the rich and diverse flavors of Thai cuisine. From spicy soups and savory curries to mouth-watering street food, there’s something to delight every palate. Here are some of the best local dishes you must try when visiting Pattaya.
1. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
Description: Tom Yum Goong is a quintessential Thai dish known for its hot and sour flavors. This aromatic soup features fresh shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili paste. Where to Try:
- Soi Buakhao Market: Numerous stalls offer authentic versions of this popular soup.
- Leng Kee Restaurant: A well-known spot for traditional Thai cuisine.
2. Som Tam (Papaya Salad)
Description: Som Tam is a refreshing and spicy salad made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, and chilies. Where to Try:
- Thepprasit Night Market: Freshly prepared Som Tam with customizable spice levels.
- Nong Jai Restaurant: Famous for its delicious salads, including Som Tam.
3. Pad Thai (Stir-Fried Noodles)
Description: Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes, featuring stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, shrimp or chicken, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a tamarind-based sauce. Where to Try:
- Mae Sri Ruen: Known for its flavorful and authentic Pad Thai.
- Jomtien Beach Street Food Stalls: Offers several variations of this classic dish.
4. Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry)
Description: Green curry is a rich and creamy dish made from green curry paste, coconut milk, Thai eggplants, bamboo shoots, and your choice of meat, often garnished with Thai basil. Where to Try:
- Took Lae Dee: Serves an excellent version of green curry with chicken or beef.
- Suttangrak Pattaya: A beachfront restaurant offering delicious green curry.
5. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)
Description: Moo Ping are marinated pork skewers, grilled to perfection and often served with sticky rice. They are a favorite street food snack across Thailand. Where to Try:
- Soi 6 Street Food Stalls: Numerous vendors offering freshly grilled Moo Ping.
- Pattaya Night Bazaar: Great spot to enjoy these savory skewers.
6. Khao Pad (Fried Rice)
Description: Khao Pad is a simple yet flavorful dish of stir-fried rice with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat, often accompanied by a wedge of lime and sliced cucumber. Where to Try:
- Leng Kee Restaurant: Known for its tasty and generously portioned fried rice.
- Tree Town Market: Offers various versions of fried rice to suit different tastes.
7. Pla Pao (Grilled Fish)
Description: Pla Pao features whole fish stuffed with lemongrass and coated in a thick layer of salt before being grilled over charcoal. The result is a tender and flavorful dish. Where to Try:
- Jomtien Beach Road: Vendors grilling fresh seafood, including Pla Pao.
- Lan Pho Naklua Market: Famous for its fresh seafood offerings.
8. Laab (Minced Meat Salad)
Description: Laab is a spicy and tangy minced meat salad made with ground pork or chicken, mixed with lime juice, fish sauce, chili flakes, and fresh herbs like mint and cilantro. Where to Try:
- Soi Buakhao Market: Many stalls sell this zesty and fragrant salad.
- Mama Noi Restaurant: Renowned for its authentic and flavorful Laab dishes.
9. Kai Jeow (Thai Omelette)
Description: Kai Jeow is a fluffy Thai omelette cooked with fish sauce and often filled with minced pork or vegetables. It’s typically served over rice and drizzled with Sriracha sauce. Where to Try:
- Pattaya Floating Market: Vendors making fresh Kai Jeow to order.
- Baan Sukhawadee: Known for its delicious breakfast options, including Thai omelettes.
10. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang)
Description: Mango Sticky Rice is a beloved Thai dessert made from sweet sticky rice topped with ripe mango slices and drizzled with coconut milk. Where to Try:
- Thepprasit Night Market: Numerous stalls offering fresh and sweet Mango Sticky Rice.
- Central Festival Pattaya Beach: Food court with various dessert stalls.
Tips for Enjoying Local Dishes in Pattaya
- Explore Street Food: Don’t hesitate to try food from street vendors. It’s often where you’ll find the most authentic and affordable dishes.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Thai food can be quite spicy. If you’re not accustomed to heat, ask for your dishes to be less spicy.
- Stay Hydrated: Spicy food can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
- Local Recommendations: Ask locals or fellow travelers for their favorite spots to eat. Personal recommendations often lead to the best culinary experiences.
Conclusion
Pattaya’s culinary scene is a delightful exploration of Thailand’s rich and varied flavors. From spicy soups and savory skewers to sweet desserts, the city’s local dishes offer something for every taste. Use this guide to discover some of the best local dishes in Pattaya and enjoy a gastronomic adventure that showcases the best of Thai cuisine.