10 restaurants in Hat Yai That Locals Actually Love

I stumbled upon Tuan Tuan on a rainy afternoon, drawn in by the aroma of broth wafting through the air. The owner, an elderly lady with a warm smile, served me a steaming bowl of her famous kuay teow. Each slurp was pure comfort, reminding me of home-cooked meals. I learned that she’s been running this place for over 30 years, and her secret? A pinch of love in every bowl!

I first tried khao yum at a friend’s birthday party, and I was instantly hooked! Khao Yum Khun Yai serves this Southern Thai rice salad in a way that makes you feel like you’re at a family gathering. The ingredients are fresh and vibrant, each bite bursting with flavor. The owner, a jovial man, takes pride in sourcing his herbs from local markets, and you can taste the difference.

A-Saan was a happy accident; I was lost and hungry when I wandered in. The moment I tasted their spicy papaya salad, I was transported to food heaven. The crunchiness of the papaya mixed with the tangy lime and fish sauce was a revelation. The atmosphere is laid-back, with friendly staff who treat you like family.

I discovered Lee's Seafood while exploring the night market. The sizzling sound of seafood grilling caught my attention, and I couldn’t resist. The grilled prawns were a masterpiece—smoky, juicy, and seasoned to perfection. The owner, a passionate seafood lover, shared stories about his fishing trips, making the experience even more special.

Khao Gaeng Tiam was recommended to me by a friend, and it quickly became my go-to for curry. The variety is mind-blowing; I’ve tried everything from spicy green curry to the rich massaman. The owners are a lovely couple who take pride in their cooking, and they remember your favorite dishes after just a few visits.

Roti Sai Mai was a sweet discovery while wandering through a local market. The first bite of their cotton candy roti was magical. It’s not just a snack; it’s a memory of childhood for many locals. The owner, a cheerful woman, shared how she learned this recipe from her grandmother, and you could taste the nostalgia in every bite.

The first time I had khao soi, I was hooked! Khun Thong serves the best khao soi I’ve ever tasted. The creamy coconut curry, paired with crispy noodles, is pure bliss. The owner, a friendly man with a passion for food, explained the history of the dish, making every bite even more special.

A rainy day led me to Sushi & Sashimi, and I was blown away by the freshness. The sushi here rivals that of big cities. The chef, an enthusiastic young man, takes pride in sourcing quality fish, and you can taste the difference. I was lucky enough to sit at the bar and watch him work his magic.

Coffee House was my sanctuary on lazy afternoons. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wraps around you like a warm hug. The owner, a passionate barista, taught me how to brew the perfect cup. It’s a place where you can relax, read a book, or catch up with friends.

Khrua Khun Khao was recommended to me by a local friend, and it quickly became my favorite place for a hearty feast. The family-style dining experience makes it feel like a big gathering. The dishes are flavorful and generous, perfect for sharing with friends.