Since settling in Pattaya back in 1997, food has become more than just sustenance — it’s how I connect with the city. With two decades of hospitality experience, I approach every bite with the eye of a seasoned insider and the heart of someone who still gets excited over grilled chicken skewers at the night market or a velvety mousse from my own kitchen.
Food here is flavor, fellowship, and ritual. After a demanding week in real estate, I celebrate with a good meal — either at a local gem or behind my own stovetop. Sundays? Sacred. That’s when I slow down, knead bread, stir sauces, and savor the stillness as much as the taste.
Here’s my personal guide to Pattaya’s vibrant food scene — from legendary street stalls to refined fine dining rooms, all seasoned with stories.
Street Food: Flavor with Familiarity
Pattaya’s street food culture has evolved, but never lost its soul. Soi Buakhao and Thepprasit Night Market are sensory playgrounds — the sizzle of satay, the clatter of woks, the zing of fresh som tum.
My must-haves:
- Pad Thai — Find the stall near Chaiyaphruek Road. Seasoned wok. Generous peanuts.
- Som Tum — Spicy, zesty, and perfect with sticky rice and grilled chicken.
- Satay Skewers — Smoky, creamy peanut sauce. Finger-licking mandatory.
- Gai Tod (Fried Chicken) — Crispy perfection near local schools. Odd tip, but trust it.
- Tom Yum — Prawns, lemongrass, chili — a layered explosion of flavor.
- Mango Sticky Rice — Sweet, salty coconut bliss in a foam container.
Insider tips:
- Trust long queues — locals always know best.
- Bring tissues and sanitizer. It’s all part of the ritual.
- Be adventurous — the best bites often come from the boldest decisions.
- Walk, don’t drive. You’ll see more, smell more, discover more.
Sunday Brunch: A Gourmet Ritual Worth Chasing
Bangkok’s hotel brunches may be unmatched, but Pattaya has rising contenders.
Reliable picks:
- Courtyard by Marriott Pattaya
- Dusit Hotel Pattaya
Thoughtful service, refined atmosphere, and well-executed menus.
Exceptional escape:
- PARADISO at Sunplay Bangsaray
Fresh burrata, porchetta, prosecco — all under a breezy terrace with hillside views. It’s not just brunch — it’s a micro-vacation.
Seafood BBQ Buffets?
They’re popular, sure — but I remain unapologetically loyal to slow-roasted meats, glazed ham, and chargrilled lamb.
Fine Dining: Elegance with Heart
Pattaya’s fine dining isn’t flashy — it’s soulful. Less about theatrics, more about craftsmanship and passion.
My curated favorites:
- Café des Amis — Culinary artistry and the largest Gin collection I know.
- Casa Pascal — Quietly elegant, consistently excellent.
- Harlan’s Bar & Restaurant — Michelin-trained precision and global flair.
- Au Bon Coin — Classic French charm with sentimental depth.
- The Globe Hotel (Soi 7) — Ambitious, skillful, and one to watch.
- Ristorante Da Marco — The Italian heartbeat of Swiss Sabai.
- Café Blu (Arcadia Beach) — Same pedigree, approachable prices.
Global Grub & Steaks: Pattaya’s Passport to Flavor
Italian Gems: Osteria Sendi, Fusillo, Prego, Trattoria Toscana, Marco’s, Paradiso, Gian’s — and for deep-pocket luxury, Castello Di Bellagio.
Steak Spots: El Gaucho, Patrick’s, Beefeater, Dirty Ranch, American BBQ & Grill, Flame, Longhorn, and soon — El Harlan.
Indian Standouts: Alibaba Tandoori, Indian By Nature, Masala Twist.
A Few Wild Cards:
- Don Pepe Tapas Bar — Spanish flair and great for socializing.
- Das-Berliner Bistro — German comfort food at its best.
- HOPS Brew House — Great beer and pizza by Enzo.
- Grillicious by Beirut — Lebanese delicacies worth discovering.
- Shanghai Restaurant — No frills, just flavor.
- Nicky’s on Buakhao — Pattaya’s breakfast best deal.
Where’s the Brazilian churrasco? Or authentic Greek dining? If you find them, message me — I’m hunting too.
Thai Delicacies: Always Worth the Wander
From humble homes to rustic gardens:
- Baan Kaeng Homemade Thai
- À La Campagne (Somtum Villa)
- Praneat
- MAYs Pattaya
For fresh seafood? Head to Baan Amphur or Bangsaray. Saltwater air makes everything taste better.
After-Dinner Drinks: The Nightcap is Sacred
Whether it’s classy or cozy:
- Darkness Bar
- Empire Luxury Private Club
There are countless more… but I need to switch gears and get back to property valuations.
Written by Mr. KC Cuijpers, Managing Director & CEO of Town & Country Property — a real estate veteran and unapologetic foodie. Whether weighing investment opportunities or weighing ingredients for a Sunday roast, he approaches both with clarity, passion, and a refined taste.
With having just two goals in life: To eat and to lose weight.
