Southern Thailand, with its beautiful beaches and rich culture, is also a culinary paradise. The region’s cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fragrant herbs, and the heat of its dishes. From fiery curries to fresh seafood, Southern Thai food offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, sampling the region’s signature dishes is a must. Here are seven Southern Thai dishes that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this vibrant part of the country.
:::: Stir-Fried Bai Liang with Eggs (ใบเหลียงผัดไข่) :::
Bai Liang, a popular local vegetable, is a must-try when exploring Southern Thai cuisine. This dish is perhaps one of the most approachable for those unfamiliar with the intense flavors of the region, as it offers a mild and comforting taste. Stir-fried with eggs, Bai Liang becomes a savory delight that pairs well with other spicier dishes. Its slightly sweet and earthy flavor makes it a perfect accompaniment to balance the heat that Southern Thai cuisine is known for. For many locals, this dish is not just a side but a staple that complements their daily meals.
:::: Stir-Fried Sator with Shrimp (ผัดสะตอกุ้งสด) ::::
Sator, or bitter bean, is a distinctive Southern Thai ingredient that may surprise newcomers with its bold, somewhat pungent taste. However, when stir-fried with fresh shrimp and shrimp paste, it transforms into a delicious and complex dish. The rich, slightly bitter flavor of the sator is balanced by the sweetness of the shrimp and the umami depth of the shrimp paste, creating a dish that is as aromatic as it is flavorful. This dish is a true representation of Southern Thailand’s love for strong, contrasting flavors that come together harmoniously on the palate.
:::: Shrimp Paste Chili Dip (น้ำพริกกะปิ) ::::
Shrimp paste, or kapi, is an essential ingredient in Southern Thai cooking, made from tiny shrimp known as krill. Each region has its own method of making shrimp paste, leading to subtle variations in flavor. Nam Prik Kapi, or shrimp paste chili dip, is a classic Southern dish often served as a complimentary side at local restaurants. It is typically paired with fresh or steamed vegetables , making it a versatile and ubiquitous part of Southern Thai meals. In some places, like Koh Samui, the shrimp paste is roasted in a coconut shell before being used, adding a unique smoky aroma that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
:::: Southern Thai Yellow Curry (แกงส้ม) ::::
Gaeng Som, or Southern Thai yellow curry, is a signature dish that showcases the region’s love for heat and spices. Unlike other Thai curries, Gaeng Som does not contain coconut milk, allowing the vibrant flavors of the curry paste to shine through. The paste is made with a blend of chilies, turmeric, and various herbs and spices, resulting in a curry that is both spicy and sour. This dish is versatile, often prepared with fish, shrimp, or even fruit like pineapple, and is a must-try for those who enjoy bold and intense flavors.
:::: Crab Curry with Rice Noodles (ขนมจีนน้ำยาปู) ::::
While khanom jeen (fermented rice noodles) are popular throughout Thailand, the Southern version paired with crab curry is particularly renowned. Fresh crab meat is cooked in a rich and spicy coconut milk curry, creating a luxurious dish that is both creamy and packed with flavor. This curry is then served over the soft rice noodles, often accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs that add a crisp contrast to the dish’s rich flavors. In some regions, this curry is served with thin rice vermicelli instead of khanom jeen, offering a slightly different texture that is equally delicious.
:::: Southern Fried Chicken (ไก่ทอด) ::::
Southern Thai fried chicken, especially from Hat Yai, is famous across the country for its irresistible flavor and crispy texture. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of garlic, coriander, and other spices before being deep-fried to perfection. The result is a dish that is golden and crunchy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. It is often served with sticky rice or even paired with khanom jeen, providing a delightful contrast to the spicy dishes typically found in Southern Thai cuisine. For those who prefer milder dishes, this fried chicken is a satisfying and flavorful choice.
:::: Stir-Fried Spicy Pork with Southern Herbs (คั่วกลิ้งหมู) ::::
Kua Kling, or stir-fried spicy pork, is one of the most intense dishes in Southern Thai cuisine, known for its fiery heat and robust flavors. The dish is made by stir-frying minced pork with a pungent Southern curry paste that includes ingredients like turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal. The result is a dry, intensely flavored dish that packs a punch with every bite. It is often garnished with kaffir lime leaves, adding a fresh citrusy aroma that balances the richness of the pork. Kua Kling is a must-try for anyone who enjoys spicy food and wants to experience the full spectrum of Southern Thai flavors.
Southern Thai Restaurants in Bangkok
Sorn
A Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an authentic Southern Thai dining experience with a modern twist. Known for its meticulous preparation and use of rare ingredients.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/akTaUaps2eeF2zEE9
Baan Ice
A well-loved spot for authentic Southern Thai cuisine, Baan Ice is known for its fiery curries and fresh seafood dishes, all served in a cozy, home-like setting.
Website: baanice.com
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DZKGkyLik8broosq9
Khua Kling Pak Sod
This popular eatery serves up traditional Southern Thai dishes that are both spicy and flavorful, with recipes passed down through generations.
Website: khuaklingpaksod.com
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HLQkHHuiXq3k5oP96
Southern Thai Restaurants in Phuket
Raya Restaurant
A historic restaurant in a traditional Sino-Portuguese house, Raya offers a taste of authentic Southern Thai cuisine in a charming setting.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QqEZcKTinb2HtxpL6
Mor Mu Dong
Tucked away in a mangrove forest, this local favorite serves rustic Southern Thai dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QCMctfCL2LE9cJdo6
Kan Eang @ Pier
Located near Chalong Pier, this restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Southern Thai dishes, all served with stunning ocean views.
Website: kaneang-pier.com
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/rws4KYegDfpbEzeMA
One Chun Cafe & Restaurant
chic, retro-style restaurant offering a modern twist on Southern Thai cuisine, with dishes that are both delicious and beautifully presented.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jWDyTyK2LXFryfxw8
Southern Thai Restaurants in Koh Samui
Sabienglae Restaurant
Known for its authentic Southern Thai cuisine, Sabienglae is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering dishes rich in flavor and tradition.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/BL8wNAUzEGz7zzjM7
Baitong Restaurant
Description: Located in Chaweng, Baitong Restaurant offers a mix of Southern Thai and international dishes in a relaxed, beachfront setting.
Website: baitongrestaurant.com
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/gbESkAbVNhZvyPyf7
Krua Samui
A well-established restaurant offering a variety of Southern Thai dishes with a focus on fresh seafood, all served in a charming, open-air setting.
Location & Info :
https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jadn6ePMhitKNXaP8
Krua Bang Po (ครัวบางปอ)
Known for its seafood and traditional Southern Thai dishes, Krua Bang Po offers a dining experience right by the beach with stunning sunset views.
Location & Info :