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Where to Stay in Pattaya

Where to Stay in Pattaya

Pattaya Chonburi Province, Thailand Travel Guide

Culinary Overview

Flavors & Origins

  • Ingredients

    Rice, noodles, fresh herbs (lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves), chilies, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, coconut milk, palm sugar.

  • Flavor Profile

    Complex and aromatic, often combining spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and savory notes.

  • Regionality

    Pattaya’s cuisine is broadly central Thai, with a strong seafood focus due to its coastal location.

  • Cultural Mix

    Diverse tourist and expatriate populations influence a wide variety of international cuisine.

Dining Habits

  • Utensils

    Thais typically eat with a spoon and fork. Chopsticks are for noodle dishes. Knives are generally not used.

  • Sharing

    Meals often serve family-style, with multiple dishes shared among diners.

  • Tipping

    Not mandatory for street food, but appreciated for good service in restaurants.

  • Meal Times

    No strict meal times exist; street food is available throughout the day. Dinner is typically the main shared meal.

Must-Try Dishes

Taste the true flavors of Thailand.

Signature Soups

Recommended Choices
  • Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)
  • Tom Kha Gai (Chicken Coconut Soup)
  • Gaeng Som (Sour Curry)
  • Clear Noodle Soup
Spice Level Notes
  • Can be very spicy for many palates
  • Some dishes might contain offal
  • Not suitable for vegans (fish sauce)
  • Verify ingredients for specific diets

Noodle & Rice Dishes

Popular Staples
  • Pad Thai (Thai Fried Noodles)
  • Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Stir-fried Basil Pork)
  • Khao Pad (Fried Rice)
  • Guay Teow (Noodle Soup)
Dietary Watchpoints
  • Specify spice preference to vendor
  • Verify protein for dietary needs
  • Sweetness levels vary by vendor
  • Cross-contamination is possible for allergies

Curries & Grills

Main Course Favorites
  • Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan)
  • Massaman Curry
  • Pla Pao (Salt-Crusted Grilled Fish)
  • Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken)
Ingredient Reminders
  • Curries use coconut milk, can be rich
  • Massaman Curry contains peanuts
  • Pla Pao is a whole fish with bones
  • Not all curries share the same spice profile

Street Food & Beverages

Street Food Highlights

Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken), Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers), Roti (Thai Pancake), Mango Sticky Rice (seasonal).

Beverage Refreshments

Thai Iced Tea, Fresh Coconut Water, Fresh Juices, Local Beers (Singha, Chang, Leo).

Dining Options

Pattaya has a dining experience for every occasion.

Types of Eateries

  • Fine Dining Establishments
  • Mid-Range Restaurants
  • Budget Eateries and Street Food Stalls
  • Markets and Food Halls

Global Cuisine Variety

  • Extensive International Cuisine
  • European and American Options
  • Japanese and Korean Specialties
  • Indian and Middle Eastern Flavors

Recommended Locations

Upscale Dining
  • Caprice (Royal Cliff Grand Hotel)
  • Elements Restaurant (Amari Pattaya)
  • Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Bar (Hilton Pattaya)
  • The Sky Gallery / The Chocolate Factory
Local Favorites
  • Mum Aroi (Naklua - Seafood)
  • The Glass House (Jomtien - Beachfront)
  • Leng Kee (Chinese-Thai Seafood)
  • Thepprasit Road Night Market (Street Food)

Dining Notes

Street Food Tip

Look for stalls with long lines and high turnover. This indicates fresh, popular food.

Iconic Snacks

Try crispy pork (Moo Krob), various fried insects (for the adventurous), dried fruits, and dried seafood snacks.

Seasonal Items

Certain fruits, like durian, are seasonal. Festival foods typically appear during specific events.

Special Dietary Considerations

Navigate Pattaya's dining scene with dietary considerations.

Vegetarian & Vegan

Availability & Challenges

These options are increasingly common, especially in tourist areas. Look for restaurants advertising "vegetarian" or "jay".

  • Fish sauce is a staple; ask for "mai sai nam pla" (no fish sauce).
  • "Gin jay" translates to "eat vegan" and is common for Buddhist vegetarianism.
  • Many curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes are adaptable.
  • "Pad pak" (stir-fried vegetables) is a common vegetarian option.
Helpful Phrases & Tools

Clear communication is for dietary needs.

  • Carry an allergy translation card in Thai.
  • Specify "mai ao pang" (no flour or wheat) for gluten-free.
  • The HappyCow app assists in locating vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
  • Online forums provide additional useful information.

Halal, Kosher & Allergens

Halal Availability

Pattaya contains a Muslim population. Halal restaurants are present, especially in South Pattaya and Walking Street.

  • Look for "Halal" signs on establishments.
  • Many Middle Eastern tourists visit these zones.
  • Kosher options are extremely limited.
  • Self-catering for kosher needs is advisable.
Gluten-Free & Other Allergens

Navigating gluten-free dining can be challenging. Soy sauce often contains wheat.

  • Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free.
  • Cross-contamination has a risk in kitchens.
  • Communicate clearly: "mai ao gluten" (no gluten).
  • Translation cards are highly helpful for specific allergies.

Food Safety

  • Water & Ice

    Drink only bottled water. Ice from reputable sources is generally safe.

  • Cooked Food

    Opt for hot, freshly cooked food. Avoid items sitting for extended periods.

  • Hand Hygiene

    Wash hands thoroughly before eating. Carry hand sanitizer.

  • Cleanliness Check

    Check for clean utensils and serving areas, especially at street stalls.

Hydration & Comfort

  • Stay Hydrated

    Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration in the tropical climate.

  • Manage Heat

    Limit heavy meals during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for lighter, cooler dishes.

  • Electrolytes

    Consider drinks with electrolytes if you spend extended time in the sun.

  • Cooling Treats

    Enjoy fresh fruit shakes and iced desserts to stay cool and refreshed.

Culinary Experiences

Cooking Classes

Several cooking schools in Pattaya conduct half-day or full-day classes teaching popular Thai dishes.

  • Learn authentic preparation methods
  • Discover local ingredients
  • Taste your own creations
  • Receive recipes to recreate dishes at home
Food Tours

Food tours explore local markets and street food, often with a guide explaining the cuisine.

  • Sample diverse street food specialties
  • Discover hidden culinary spots
  • Understand ingredients and cooking styles
  • Learn about local food culture and traditions

Unique Dining & Events

Scenic Restaurants

The Sky Gallery and The Chocolate Factory are popular for stunning views, especially at sunset.

Theme Restaurants

Venues like the House of Benedict provide unique ambiance and photo opportunities.

Food Festivals

Pattaya sometimes hosts seafood festivals or local food fairs. Check local event listings for dates.