Joanna James
Thought to be the very first resort town in Thailand, Hua Hin has transformed from a beloved getaway for Thai royalty to a bustling retreat for visitors from all over the world. 5-star resorts and family hotels line the busy shoreline, while brightly coloured Songlors roam the charming coastal streets. Amidst the laid-back atmosphere, Hua Hin offers a gastronomic experience that extends far beyond the familiar realm of lemongrass-infused pad Thai and hearty pork-based broths. Venture into the culinary world of Hua Hin and discover the hidden gems of this coastal town's most iconic dishes.
A quintessential Hua Hin delicacy, this dish is one of the many showcases of the region's bounty of fresh seafood. Succulent blue crab wings are gently steamed to perfection, preserving their natural sweetness. Often enjoyed as a meaty starter at some of the best restaurants in Hua Hin, the wings are served with a spicy dipping sauce, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavours and textures.
Once more, Hua Hin's infamous blue crab takes centre stage, this time in an innovative twist on the classic Thai papaya salad. Replacing the usual shrimp found in Som Tam, this combination of sweet and spicy elements creates a symphony of flavours, elevated by the addition of blue crab and unlocked a new level of deliciousness. Try a bite of this popular appetiser at Sai Thong, a scenic beachfront dining experience located on the grounds of Anantara Hua Hin Resort.
A fairly common dish easily found around town, sand whiting, a kind of small, silver saltwater fish, transform into a battered, fragrant delicacy, best enjoyed with a side of steaming jasmine rice. Coated in a garlic peppercorn-based mixture, and deep fried till crisp and chewy, the sand whiting embody the essence of coastal living in Hua Hin, and is a simple, barebones dish beloved by the community.
For the adventurous foodie, Hoi Wan Pad Cha is a must-try. Tender snails are expertly stir-fried in a fiery chilli oil, resulting in a dish that is both spicy and addictive. The contrasting textures of the snails and the vegetables create a delightful culinary experience.
Another unique culinary concoction, this Hua Hin delicacy is a variation of the Central Region's famous Hor Mok Talay, or steamed seafood custard. While most cities typically use freshwater fish, this coastal version opts for cuts of seabass, alongside shrimp, mussels and other seafood cooked in a creamy, coconut-based red curry.
Indulge your sweet tooth with Kanom Tian, a traditional Thai dessert. These delicate rice flour cakes are filled with a luscious coconut custard and topped with toasted sesame seeds. The perfect ending to a delicious meal, Kanom Tian offers a taste of authentic Thai sweetness.
Another local favourite, Kanom Mae Taeng is a steamed rice cake with a unique texture. Once more filled with a sweet coconut custard and topped with a savoury crumble, this dessert offers a surprising and delightful combination of flavours.
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.
