What used to be a fishing village as recently as the 1960s has transformed into a bustling city with resorts, skyscrapers and a vibrant nightlife with 24-hour clubs and cabaret bars. Pattaya's culinary scene is equally impressive, featuring fresh seafood, Thai street food and international influences.
Street food is an integral part of this culinary excellence, offering authentic flavours, vibrant aromas and the chance to dine like a local. Read on to discover the must-try street food in Pattaya, Thailand.
List of best street food in Pattaya
The best street foods in Pattaya are:
Som Tum
A Thai street food staple, Som Tum is a papaya salad that features shredded green papaya, grilled meats and sticky rice. The traditional version includes dried shrimp and peanuts, though variations might incorporate salted egg, fermented fish sauce or crab.
Pad Thai
An iconic Thai dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish served with a choice of meat (prawns, chicken), eggs, tofu, peanuts and lime. The magic lies in its balance of sweet, sour and savoury notes from tamarind paste, fish sauce and palm sugar.
In Pattaya, seaside vendors often add freshly caught seafood to this national favourite.
Grilled Squid
Grilled squid stands out as a must-try in Pattaya's street food scene. It is widely served at beachfront stalls and walking markets, where the theatrical preparation adds to the experience.
Fresh squid is marinated in garlic, chilli and lime before being grilled over charcoal. It is typically served with a spicy seafood dipping sauce.
Thai Fish Cakes
A popular street food appetiser, Thai Fish Cakes (Tod Mun Pla) are made with minced fish, red curry paste and various aromatics including kaffir lime leaves and green beans. They are generally served with a cucumber relish featuring crushed peanuts and sweet chilli dipping sauce.
Places to eat street food in Pattaya
Pattaya's street food can be best experienced at the following places:
- Thepprasit Night Market
- Pattaya Night Bazaar
- Soi Buakhao Market
Conclusion
The city's unique position as both a fishing community and international destination has created a street food scene that honours Thai culinary traditions whilst embracing innovation. As you plan your Thailand trip, research the best spots for dishes, plan in advance and take appropriate precautionary measures like acquiring single trip travel insurance. A robust travel insurance policy offers vital protection against events like delays, cancellations and theft.
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