Munch Your Way Through 10 Of Hatyai's Best Eats

1. The Fish Kitchen

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

It’s not hard to guess the main highlight of this place with a name like that. Famed for their red snapper dishes, expect to find very fresh seafood, cooked to order, and a good variety of authentic Thai dishes, from Tom Yam Kung to Som Tam. Although housed in a humble setting quite far from town (you’ll either need to drive or rent a tuk-tuk), the lower price point makes The Fish Kitchen one of the most worth-it places in Hatyai for a truly delicious local meal. The friendly staff and owner only make the experience more enjoyable! As always, go in a large group to sample more items on the menu.

The Fish Kitchen

Address: 115/24 Klong Toei Klong Plae, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: The Fish Kitchen

2. Mui Kee Hainanese Chicken Rice

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

You might find it odd that this dish is so beloved by locals and tourists alike (chicken rice in Hatyai? Huh? Isn’t it supposed to be mango rice?). I’ll tell you why this place still manages to draw crowds. Mui Kee has been in the business for more than three decades now, and the sinfully good taste of its steamed chicken has not changed a bit. Tender and smooth, the expertly sliced pieces pair exquisitely well with the house-made sauce, which you’ll have to request for, and the rice itself is so fragrant you’ll be tempted to order another bowl halfway through your meal. Definitely a place not to be missed.

Mui Kee Hainanese Chicken Rice

Address: 130 Thumnoonvithi Road, Amphoe Hat Yai, Chang Wat Songkhla 90110, Thailand

3. Gäp's Garten

Editor’s note: Establishment is Permanently closed.

If a change of scenery is required, look no further than this restaurant. Serving delectable German fare in a classy and secluded ambiance, Gäp’s Garten is famous for their wide selection of imported beers and the ever-popular German pork knuckle and schnitzel. Portions are generous, and consistently good service means a hassle-free dinner. Try the German sausage platter to taste four different kinds, and don’t forget to order the steak, beautifully done to your request. What’s certain is that you’ll want to return to try something new from the menu next time!

Gäp's Garten

Address: 516/1 off Thumnoonvithi Road, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: Gäp’s Garten

4. The Basil Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A rare Mediterranean gem in Hatyai, the Basil boasts excellent Italian food and a monstrous wine list sure to please even the fussiest diner. Pizza lovers will adore the thin-crusted version served here, baked to perfection with generous toppings. The selection of pasta and soups also deserves special mention for their quality ingredients- this is a place where flavor and presentation merge into gorgeous dishes that look great and taste even better. The Sesame Crusted Pan-Fried Salmon is quite a mouthful (pun intended!), but rest assured it’ll be the highlight of your meal.

The Basil Restaurant

Address: 9, Soi 2 Punnakun Road, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: The Basil Restaurant

5. Greenway Night Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Simple but mouthwatering street food is the order of the day here. You’ll be genuinely spoilt for choice due to the sheer variety of food available- from fresh noodles to grilled squid to sushi! With so many options, you’ll have to watch your budget lest you get too caught up in buying packs of snacks to share (we’ve all been there). Due to the market being well-organized, roaming around is easy, but don’t expect to leave quickly- Greenway also has a mind-boggling number of stalls selling everything from clothes to pets, so you can eat and shop to your heart’s content!

Greenway Night Market

Address: 1406/3 Kanjanavanich Road, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: Greenway Market

6. Bon Khao Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

There’s something about having seafood with a view that makes a lunch or dinner occasion beyond special. At Bon Khao, guests will have just that. Located on a hill in Hatyai Municipal Park, you’ll be able to look out over the twinkling lights of the city as you eat. The food does not disappoint either- heartwarming Thai and Chinese dishes share pride of place at the table, while remaining affordable even for the solo traveler.

Bon Khao Restaurant

Address: 1/9 Kanjanavanich Road, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: Bon Khao Restaurant

7. Chen Long Boat Noodle

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Boat noodles should definitely be at the top of your must-try dishes if you’re a noodle enthusiast, and the version at Chen Long is as authentic as it gets. Each bowl is loaded with pork slices and meatballs. The dark broth is made even more glorious by adding pig’s blood and liver- essential ingredients that give that exquisite depth of flavor. To top it all off, the restaurant makes their own crackling pork skin; it’s the perfect garnish to an immensely satisfying meal. Fair warning: the portions are small here, as is tradition, so you may want to order two or three bowls per person!

Chen Long Boat Noodle

Address: 167 Sangchan Road, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

Facebook page: Chen Long Boat Noodle

8. Ching Jie Restaurant (Che Seng Tuehuan Kiamchai)

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you can’t get enough of pork, this place will be heaven on earth. Serving tantalizing braised and roasted pork as well as spare pork parts in soup, Ching Jie has made a name for itself among locals and tourists alike. They know their meat- each pork variation is flawlessly seasoned for a truly melt-in-the-mouth sensation. They usually sell out before noon, so come early to avoid long queues and for a great breakfast to start the day!

Ching Jie Restaurant

Address: Nipat Uthit 1 Road, La Mai Songkhro, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

9. Kim Yong Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This final recommendation is something you can’t skip while in Hatyai. If you have no time for anything else, visit this iconic market and you’ll have had a taste of Thailand. Wandering through the maze-like lanes of the market, one finds a new hawker stall around every corner, selling all manners of delicacies. From handheld snacks to proper sit-down meals, the street food experience comes to life from the early morning- with dizzying vividness and color.

Kim Yong Market

Address: Sang Aretit Road, Hat Yai 90110, Thailand

10. Homeless Bar and Grill offers western food in Thailand

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The Homeless Bar and Grill serves up western food, mainly of the American kind. Live music and pleasant settings make for an enjoyable meal. Order a cheeseburger and relax with friends. The menu is varied and there is much more than burgers on the menu. Try their take on the spicy chicken fajita, a pizza or nachos.

The accommodating and friendly staff in this small restaurant also serve up an array of cocktails. Craft beers go well with the ribs. With fries, onion rings and barbecues, it’s the perfect place for American cuisine in a friendly atmosphere in Thailand.

Homeless Bar and Grill

Address: 14 Pracharom Hat Yai, Thailand

Telephone: +66 80 533 9553

Website: Homeless House restaurant

A unique gastronomic adventure

With its numerous cultural influences, Hatyai is a haven for foodies of all budgets. Give these places a try on your next trip, I hope you’ll love them as much as I did!