Best places to eat in Thailand
Thailand is well known for its stunning beaches and limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay, the magnificent temples and floating markets of Bangkok and colourful cultural heritage of Chiang Mai, but one thing that Thailand is renowned for across the world is it food.
Thailand’s cuisine needs no introduction, and you are probably familiar with the usual curries, noodles, and spring rolls. But the best and most authentic food is only found in the country itself and we think it is one of the BEST reasons to visit Thailand on holiday.
Thailand has some of the best street food on the planet and wherever you visit in the country, there will be stalls with sizzling and tantalizing smells. If you are staying in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, we’d highly recommend a street food tour with a guide, who can take you to the best spots and introduce you to the tastiest local favourites.
Thailand is also brimming with a fabulous choice of restaurants and if you are in need of inspiration, we can share our personal recommendations and even help you book these.
Wherever you are staying in Thailand, you are never far from a local eatery, either within walking distance or a short taxi ride from your hotel. If you prefer to walk straight out of your hotel and find a choice or restaurants on your doorstep, we have some perfectly placed boutique hotels which offer just that.
Dining in Bangkok – Riva Suraya
Simple, but charming and great value for money, this boutique hotel is perfectly placed with river views and within a hop, skip and a jump from Khao San Road, with its plentiful local eateries. China Town is 10 minutes in a tuk tuk or hop in a water taxi to access the many top restaurants on the river.
Dining in Chiang Mai – Tamarind Village
This gorgeous Lanna style boutique property lies within the walled old town of the city with plenty of local cafes and restaurants within striking distance, or a short taxi ride away.
This would be our top address for those who like to be in the heart of everything.
Dining in Phuket – The Slate
Phuket has many restaurants to choose from, many within the islands’ luxury hotels, but for those who are seeking local, the small beach enclave of Nai Yang Beach is home to The Slate, a great hotel which not only has some lovely restaurants of its own, but if you walk out its doors you can stroll down the road and enjoy Phad Thai on the beach for a fraction of the price of most of the hotels in the area.
Dining in Koh Samui – Zazen
Ahhh Zazen, a gorgeous boutique hotel close to our hearts. A true Turquoise favourite, this family owned and run retreat has just re-opened its doors after a complete facelift, however we promise it hasn’t lost any of its charm. It is home to one of Samui’s best beach restaurants but, with a spot on Bo Phut Beach (the quiet end) it is ideally located for a stroll along the beach to Fisherman’s Village with its many restaurants and bars. Relax on the beach and enjoy the fire dancers at Coco Tams beach club or enjoy delicious Thai fusion at Thai Tapas. Fisherman’s Village is within an easy 15-minute drive from most of the hotels we feature in Koh Samui, but none are as convenient as Zazen.
Dining in Koh Phangan – Anantara Rasananda
Koh Phangan offers a much slower pace of life than its buzzy neighbour Samui, and Anantara Rasananda has pride of place spread along one of its best beaches – Thong Nai Pan Noi. This is one of our absolute favourites in Thailand and this jungle resort has idyllic beachfront pool villas, located right on the sand. However, one of the best features of this resort is its proximity to the local village, located just behind the hotel, ideal for an evening stroll along the quiet roads, with a choice of local restaurants and cafes for those who like to dine local.
Our team can tailor any of these enchanting retreats into the perfect bespoke holiday itinerary for you. For some inspiration we have created a perfect boutique trio combing Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Koh Samui – click here for details.
For a bespoke holiday quote, or more information on Thailand holidays, please contact our team of specialists today. Call 01494 678400 or fill in our enquiry form.
