Best Places to Eat in Hat Yai, Thailand

Hat Yai, located in Thailand’s Songkhla Province, is fast becoming the go-to destination for Malaysians in search of a budget-friendly escape. This vibrant city, just across the border, offers a perfect blend of affordability, convenience, and cultural richness, making it an ideal spot for a short yet fulfilling getaway. The city is known for its rich food culture, offering everything from street food to fine dining. Whether you’re craving traditional Thai dishes, Chinese-style meals, or fusion eats, Hat Yai has something for everyone.

Here are some of the best places to eat in Hat Yai:

1. Krua Pa Yad

• Rating: 4.5 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Thai
• Must-Try: Stir-fried crab with curry, prawns with shrimp paste
• Address: 272 Sripoovanart Rd, Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Relaxed and casual, perfect for an authentic local experience
• Why Go: Located by the main road, Krua Pa Yad is a beloved spot for its bold Southern Thai flavors and reasonable prices. Be prepared for long queues, as locals and tourists flock here for fresh, flavorful seafood prepared with traditional spices and herbs. Despite the wait, the experience and the taste are well worth it.

2. Clay by Pun Eatery

• Rating: 4.6 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Modern Thai Fusion
• Must-Try: Clay-pot tom yum, rice noodle salad, inventive cocktails
• Address: 2F4M+8MV, Rajyindee Soi 7/1 Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Amphoe Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Stylish and contemporary with an industrial-chic ambiance
• Why Go: For a creative twist on Thai classics, Clay by Pun Eatery stands out. The clay-pot tom yum and rice noodle salad are popular choices, and their inventive cocktails pair beautifully with the innovative dishes. This trendy spot has quickly become a favorite for locals and visitors looking to enjoy a modern dining experience in Hat Yai. Reservations are required, so be sure to call ahead.
• Phone: +66 82 827 9154

3. Chok Dee Dim Sum

• Rating: 4.3 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Chinese-Thai Fusion Dim Sum
• Must-Try: Shrimp dumplings, pork buns, steamed siu mai, Bah Kut Teh (herbal soup with pork ribs)
• Address: 58 25 Lamaisongkrew Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Casual breakfast spot popular with locals
• Why Go: Start your day with a visit to Chok Dee, where freshly made dim sum dishes are served with local flair. Be sure to order the Bah Kut Teh, a flavorful herbal soup with tender pork ribs that pairs perfectly with the other dim sum offerings. The restaurant is known for its consistency in quality and flavor, making it a popular choice among the locals.

4. Nan Yuan Noodle Restaurant

• Rating: 4.3 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Thai-Chinese, specializing in duck dishes
• Must-Try: Roasted duck, duck noodles
• Address: Tanrattanakorn Rd, Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Family-friendly, classic eatery, air-conditioned
• Why Go: Known for its succulent roasted duck and flavorful noodle soups, Nan Yuan is a local favorite that draws crowds for its expertly prepared dishes. The restaurant offers a comfortable, air-conditioned environment, making it a great spot to enjoy a satisfying, casual meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty bowl of duck noodles or just want to savor the roasted duck, Nan Yuan delivers on both flavor and comfort.

5. Kan Eng Restaurant

• Rating: 4 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Traditional Thai and Seafood
• Must-Try: Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup), fried fish with tamarind sauce
• Address: 50/3 Kimpradit Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Warm, family-style restaurant
• Why Go: For traditional Thai flavors and fresh seafood, Kan Eng is the place to be. The tom yum soup here is rich and aromatic, embodying the essence of Thai cuisine. With a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great spot to enjoy comforting, flavorful Thai dishes.

6. Beast Lab

• Rating: 4.6 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Fusion, Barbecue, and Craft Cocktails
• Must-Try: BBQ meats, burgers, creative cocktails
• Address: 21-23 Juti Uthit 4 Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Trendy, industrial-style ambiance
• Why Go: This modern eatery is known for its juicy barbecue, hearty burgers, and inventive cocktails. Beast Lab’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed evening meal with friends. The fusion menu offers bold flavors that pair well with the creative cocktails, making it a standout for a casual yet exciting dining experience.

7. Krua Reuan Thai

• Rating: 4 stars on Google
• Cuisine: Traditional Thai
• Must-Try: Pad Thai, Tom Yum, stir-fried Thai vegetables
• Address: 13 ซ 23 Kanjanavanich Rd, Tambon Hat Yai, Hat Yai District, Songkhla 90110, Thailand
• Vibe: Cozy, homey, and authentic, with traditional Thai décor
• Why Go: For those seeking traditional Thai dishes with classic flavors, Krua Reuan Thai is a wonderful choice. The atmosphere is very nice—quiet and homely, with traditional Thai décor that creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Located right next to Crystal Hotel, the place is often packed, so reservations are a must.
• Phone: +66 89 653 7450

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Why Visit Hat Yai?

Hat Yai has been gaining popularity as a travel destination for Malaysians, thanks to its affordability in both food and accommodation. The city offers a wide range of budget-friendly lodging options, from hotels and guesthouses to hostels. In addition, the variety of street food and local restaurants allow you to enjoy a full Thai culinary experience at an incredibly low cost. With its close proximity to Malaysia, convenient transportation, and vibrant culture, Hat Yai is an ideal destination for a quick and affordable getaway.