Ah, Thai food. Thinking of the silky noodles and bright papaya salads will make even the most satisfied stomach rumble. Thailand does have its regional differences in cuisine, as well as food from cultures outside of Thailand. There are heaps of delicious places to get your grub, so the experts at Expedia Australia put together this list to help you narrow down your choices.
Phi Phi Islands
Once you duck out of your Phi Phi Island accommodation, you’ll be tempted to spend all day swimming and sunning on the beach. However, make sure you work some tantalising cuisine into your stay as well. After you’ve worked up an appetite snorkelling in Monkey Bay, head to Only Noodles. The no-frills food stall serves up piping hot plates of Thai noodles with your choice of protein for a low price. For a sit-down Thai experience that’s still ultra-casual, check out Papaya Restaurant, where you can expect spicy food, friendly restaurant staff, and ice-cold beers perfect during the heat of the day.
Phuket
There are stacks of things to do in Phuket, but one of the most fun is also essential: eat! Phuket is one of Thailand’s larger islands, making it an ideal destination for foodies who want to explore. Depending on what part of Phuket you’re staying in, you’ll find a variety of different restaurants to try that vary in cuisine and budgetary offerings. For those looking to have a classy night out, you’ll probably want to stop at one of the more upscale restaurants inside a beachfront resort. At The Boathouse in Kata Beach, you can eat sumptuous, Asian-inspired fine dining dishes and sip a nice glass of wine. In need of something a bit more casual? Pan Yaah Thai Restaurant has you covered. With a vast menu of authentic Thai dishes, and sweeping views of the ocean, you can’t go wrong.
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is vastly underrated. It’s off the beaten path of most travellers, but the food scene is incredible. Head to Red Snapper for a world-class meal that focusses on small plates served tapas style and killer cocktails. For Thai food, there’s no shortage of delicious roadside restaurants and stalls to explore. Start your culinary journey at Jai Dee Home feasting on pad Thai, and don’t skip out on a plate of spicy prawns at May’s Kitchen. Last but certainly not least, give your palate a treat by visiting Ling Uan (the Fat Monkey). This beachside spot has some of the best views on the island, and its blue cheese and bacon burger is something to write home about.
Thailand is home to some of the best food in the entire world. Don’t believe us? You’ll just have to taste test your way around the islands yourself.