Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
1. Koa Tod Mu-daeng (Crab Omelette)
A crispy and flavorful omelette made with crab meat, served with a tangy sauce. Try it at Sai Kaeo Crab Omelette Restaurant.
- Unique Ingredient: Crab meat is the main ingredient, giving a richer taste compared to traditional omelettes.
- Local Flavor: Features authentic Hat Yai flavors that you can't find elsewhere.
- Ease of Availability: Popular dish available in many restaurants throughout Hat Yai, but Sai Kaeo Crab Omelette Restaurant is known for its signature version.
2. Guay Teow Khua Gai (Fried Noodles with Chicken)
Stir-fried rice noodles with a savory gravy made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. The dish is topped with crispy shallots and garlic.
- Distinctive Taste: Unlike other fried noodle dishes, this one has a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Affordability: One of the most affordable local dishes you can find in Hat Yai.
- Variety: Available at numerous street food stalls, and some vendors may offer additional toppings like squid or shrimp.
3. Yum Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad)
A refreshing salad made with glass noodles, shrimp, vegetables, and peanuts. Dressing is a blend of lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chilies.
- Refreshing Option: An ideal dish to balance out the richer local dishes on your food journey.
- Presentation: Known for its vibrant and colorful presentation, making it a visual treat as well.
- Availability: Found in various eateries across Hat Yai, but you can find exceptional versions at local markets like Songkhla Wittayakom Market.
4. Khanom Jeen Nam Ya Ia (Southern-Style Rice Noodles)
Rice noodles served in a rich yellow curry sauce made from coconut milk and lemongrass. Fish or meat is often included, along with various vegetables.
- Regional Specialty: A traditional dish from Southern Thailand, not commonly found in other parts of the country.
- Comfort Food: Hearty and filling, perfect for a relaxing meal.
- Versatility: Customize your dish by choosing your preferred meat or vegetable options.
5. Moo Ping (Grilled Skewered Pork)
Marinated pork skewers grilled over charcoal, served with sticky rice. A popular street food snack.
- Flavorful Bite: The marinade gives the pork a unique and tasty flavor.
- Portability: Easy to eat on-the-go, making it perfect for busy travelers.
- Availability: Found at numerous street food vendors throughout Hat Yai.
6. Talay Mee Hokkien (Hokkien Noodles with Seafood)
Stir-fried noodles with a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and fish. The dish is cooked in a flavorful broth made from prawn head stock.
- Seafood Variety: A richer seafood selection compared to other noodle dishes.
- Authenticity: A traditional Hokkien dish, showcasing the Chinese influence in Hat Yai's cuisine.
- Spice Level: Adjustable spiciness levels catering to various tastes.
7. Hor Mok (Steamed Fish Curry)
Steamed fish fillets cooked in a rich coconut milk curry, wrapped in banana leaves. The dish is infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
- Tender Fish: The fish remains tender due to the gentle steaming process.
- Unique Presentation: Banana leaf wrapped parcels make for an attractive and authentic presentation.
- Flavorful Sauce: The curry sauce is flavorful, yet not overpowering the fish's natural taste.
8. Rot Maa (Thai Pancakes)
Crispy and sweet Thai pancakes filled with various fillings like bananas, taro, or corn. They are usually served with a sweet coconut milk dip.
- Variety of Fillings: Offers a range of filling options to cater to different preferences.
- Sweet Treat: An ideal dessert or snack after exploring Hat Yai's local attractions.
- Accessibility: Found in many eateries and street food vendors, making them easy to find.
9. Som Tam (Green Papaya Salad)
A spicy and tangy salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and dried shrimp. It is dressed with lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and chilies.
- Spicy Kick: The spiciness of the salad can be adjusted according to preference.
- Fresh and Healthy: A refreshing dish that is light and healthy, perfect for those watching their diet.
- Availability: Found in various street food stalls, markets, and restaurants throughout Hat Yai.
10. Gaeng Som (Sour and Spicy Soup)
A spicy and sour soup made with fish or meat, vegetables, and tamarind. The dish is infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.
- Tangy Taste: Its tanginess sets it apart from other Thai soups.
- Hearty Meal: Offers a complete meal with various vegetables and proteins.
- Spice Level: Adjustable spiciness levels catering to various tastes.
11. Pad Pak Ruam Mit (Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables)
A stir-fried dish featuring a variety of seasonal vegetables. The vegetables are stir-fried with garlic, oyster sauce, and soy sauce.
- Seasonal Ingredients: The ingredients change according to the season, showcasing fresh local produce.
- Vegetarian Option: An excellent vegetarian option for travelers who prefer plant-based meals.
- Healthy Choice: A healthy and light dish, perfect for those mindful of their diet.
12. Thong Yip (Thai Doughnuts)
Deep-fried dough balls coated in a crispy, golden brown batter. They are usually served with sweetened condensed milk or coconut cream.
- Sweet Treat: An ideal dessert or snack after exploring Hat Yai's local attractions.
- Traditional Snack: A traditional Thai snack that is popular throughout the country, but Hat Yai offers its unique twist on this classic treat.
- Portability: Easy to eat on-the-go, making it perfect for busy travelers.
13. Naem Khao Tod (Fried Sticky Rice with Chili Paste)
Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and steamed. The rice is then deep-fried and served with a spicy chili paste.
- Crunchy Texture: The contrasting textures of the crunchy fried rice and smooth chili paste make for an interesting dish.
- Spicy Kick: The spiciness of the dish can be adjusted according to preference.
- Uniqueness: A unique dish that showcases the creativity and resourcefulness of Thai cuisine.
14. Thong Yip Khom (Colorful Thai Doughnuts)
Deep-fried dough balls that are coated in a sweet batter and colored with natural food dyes made from ingredients like pandan leaf or turmeric.
- Colorful Treat: Its vibrant colors make it an attractive snack.
- Traditional Snack: A traditional Thai snack that is popular throughout the country, but Hat Yai offers its unique twist on this classic treat.
- Portability: Easy to eat on-the-go, making it perfect for busy travelers.
15. Khao Niaow Ma Muang (Mango Sticky Rice)
Sticky rice served with ripe mango slices and sweetened coconut milk. Topped with salted peanuts and shredded coconut.
- Fruit Fusion: The combination of the sweet rice, ripe mango, and coconut milk creates a harmonious flavor profile.
- Dessert Option: An ideal dessert or snack after exploring Hat Yai's local attractions.
- Availability: Found in various eateries and street food vendors, making them easy to find.