Joanna James
Thai street food is right on par with the nation's fabulous beaches, shopping allures, culture and traditions. From vibrant Bangkok to beautiful Koh Phangan the street food is an absolute treat; and if you are lucky enough to be jetting off to the latter, here are the best places to be a foodie!
A short drive for guests at Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villas, the twin beaches of Thong Nai Pan Yai and Thong Nai Pan Noi are the most popular in the area for street food. You are treated to a wide variety of treats where street food is not the only option. Thong Nai Pan Yai is more budget friendly and offers one a chance to indulge in not only traditional Thai snacks but a variety of western favourites like pizza and barbequed meats. In the case of Thong Nai Pan Noi, head over to places like Tapan Noi where you can enjoy food on the beach.
Baan Tai is a lovely little village located along the east coast of Koh Phangan, perfect to explore and a real budget saver; do remember to be on the lookout for fabulous Koh Phangan hotel deals on offer at most of the island's beach resorts. A good place to enjoy a bite and drink under sunny skies, Baan Tai is perfect for savouring island vibes. Bubba's, for instance, draws quite a crowd, with seating on an open balcony and offers of breakfast, while the Night Market of Baan Tai taking place over the weekends is perfect for enjoying a real foodie tour. On Baan Kai, you may enjoy some really cheap and delicious food on the beach, do check out Mudteo Muslim Restaurant for modest Thai soups and stir-fried noodles.
A real winner in the street food category, Thong Sala, is loved for its collection of local style Thai street food, sold off carts and roadside kiosks. As the island's capital, easy to reach from a seaside resort in Koh Phangan, the area is well-serviced by not only street food stalls but a good collection of bars and laidback restaurants. Khanom Jeen is probably one of Thong Sala's best budget eateries offering south Thai curries and fresh rice noodles. Enjoy strolling the little alleys and lanes in the precinct offering a variety of quick bites, ice cold beer and a bustling atmosphere that will soon have you feeling like a local.
Chaloklam acts as Koh Phangan's main fishing port; hence, fresh seafood is a fine treat to look forward to. Apart for seafood, the area is home to a good collection of roadside eateries where one can eat to your heart's content without causing a dent in the budget. The Worlds End, for instance, is an impromptu little place serving a good breakfast and an even better cup of coffee.
Located on the western end of the island, Haad Salad offers outside dining at the beach and street corners. Aimed at tourists, most of these stalls offer the best in traditional Thai street food at very nominal rates.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
