A Culinary Adventure in Southern Thailand: 5 Must-Try Eateries in Hat Yai

From appetisers to desserts, Thai dishes are a feast for the senses

Thai cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. From fiery curries to delicate salads, each dish tells a story of regional influences and culinary traditions. On my recent trip to Hatyai, I embarked on a culinary adventure, discovering some truly exceptional (non-halal) eateries that left me craving more.

1. Sompon Restaurant @ Realm

My culinary journey in Hatyai began at Sompon Restaurant, a must-visit for any lover of authentic Southern Thai cuisine. Located on the second floor of the stylish Realm complex at Sripoovanart Road, Sompon is easily accessible and open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, making it perfect for both lunch and dinner.

Realm - Experience a complete dining journey all under one roof.

The Realm complex itself offers a vibrant atmosphere. On the first floor, the Realm Cafe is a perfect spot for enjoying coffee and pastries, while the NORA Bar provides a lively setting for cocktails, liquor, and live band performances. The complex seamlessly blends dining and entertainment, making it a fantastic destination for a memorable evening.

The vibrant colours and enticing aromas of the dishes were a feast for the senses.

At Sompon, I indulged in a symphony of flavours. Each bite was an explosion of fresh herbs, fiery chilies, and fragrant spices, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas of the dishes were a feast for the senses.

Phak Siap is a traditional Thai dish (Ulam-ulaman - our Malaysian equivalent) consisting of a variety of fresh, raw vegetables and herbs. It's essentially a Southeast Asian version of a salad, but with a unique twist. Unlike Western salads, Phak Siap often includes more exotic greens and is typically served with a spicy sambal or other dipping sauces.

Deep fried omelet

Thai Fish Sour Curry

Black Squid 

Stir-fried Glass Noodles with Stink Beans 

Crab & Yellow Chilli

Palm Sugar Creme Brulee

Black Coconut Panna Cotta

Sticky Mango Toast

Pickled Mango

Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the ground floor of the Realm complex also boasts both a charming flower shop and a delightful souvenir shop.

Realm Cafe - A fantastic place to hang out

Exclusive local well-crafted souvenirs available here. 

Realm Complex Opening Hours

2.  Ama Dim Sum

Ama Dim Sum is a must-visit for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a delightful breakfast or brunch

Ama Dimsum is a bustling and popular spot in Hat Yai, renowned for its diverse selection of delicious dim sum. When we arrived, the restaurant was packed, a testament to its local popularity.

Picking my favourite dim sum.

The dining experience is unique – it's a self-service affair. You navigate through a tempting display of freshly prepared dim sum, selecting your favorites and placing them on a provided tray. The friendly staff then efficiently steam your choices to order.

Known for their delectable small portions and wide variety, Ama Dim Sum is a must-visit for dim sum lovers.

The variety is impressive, offering a delightful range of options to satisfy every palate. From classic har gow to innovative creations, there's something for everyone.

We were fortunate enough to meet the amiable owners of Ama Dim Sum.

3. Uncle Tee Fish Noodles

Perfect for a fast and easy meal.

Craving some comforting local fare? Head to Uncle Tee Fish Noodles, a popular spot even amongst celebrities (as evidenced by the photos proudly displayed in the shop).

Try the spots that the locals love.

Don't expect fancy decor here – it's all about the food.

Tender fish slices with bouncy fish balls – a delightful combination.

Simple yet flavourful meals at Uncle Tee Fish Noodles

Unlock the umami magic! Add a small spoonful of fermented bean sauce to your noodle soup for a taste sensation.

This eatery is renowned for its fresh and flavourful fish noodle dishes. I highly recommend trying the Tom Yum Fish Balls, Steamed Fish, and of course, the Fish Noodles. The authentic Thai flavours and affordable prices make it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.

4. Ar Restaurant 

Experiencing the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and sour.

Just near the bustling Kim Young Market lies Ar Restaurant, a beloved Chinese restaurant that's a favourite amongst Malaysians visiting Hat Yai. With generous portions and a lively atmosphere, it's easy to see why.

It gets very busy during dinner, so come early to secure a table.

The restaurant is consistently busy, especially in the evenings, but they have ample seating to accommodate the crowds.

This restaurant might not wow you with its interior, but the food will definitely impress.

Must-tries? Absolutely! The deep-fried tofu is a standout – perfectly crispy on the outside and incredibly soft within. The fiery tom yum soup is a true flavour explosion, while the sizzling oyster omelet is a delightful treat.

My favourite deep-fried tofu

Fiery Tom Yum Goong

Glass noodle salad with squid

Sizzling Oyster Omelet

Fried squid

Stir-fried kailan

Petai & Prawns

Ar Restaurant is a fantastic dining experience. The delicious food, generous portions, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit for any foodie exploring Hat Yai.

5. Nai Yao Eatery

Simple yet satisfying meal @ Nai Yao Eatery Hat Yai 

After a relaxing massage, I made my way to Nai Yao Eatery, a well-known spot for delicious food. This popular eatery is renowned for its delectable Teo Chiew-style rice porridge, a local favorite.

The porridge itself comes in two options: smooth white rice or healthy brown rice. I opted for the brown and enjoyed it with a delightful array of side dishes. 

Beyond the porridge, the menu features a variety of other options, including pork, intestine, tofu, and eggs. Stir-fried green vegetables and roast pork also round out the menu, offering something for every palate.

The steamed fish was perfectly cooked, the egg with pickled radish offered a delightful tang, the braised duck was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the spicy clams added a fiery kick.

Enjoy a truly enjoyable dining experience at Nai Yao Eatery in Hat Yai, known for its Teo Chiew porridge and delicious side dishes.

Nai Yao Eatery is a wonderful place to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal in Hat Yai. The flavourful porridge, delicious side dishes, and welcoming atmosphere make it a truly enjoyable dining experience.

If you're a durian enthusiast, be sure to seek out the Thai variety. Its thicker, larger flesh offers a truly distinctive taste.

These are just a few of the many culinary delights that Hatyai has to offer. With its diverse range of flavors and vibrant culinary scene, Hatyai is a true paradise for food lovers.

BONUS:

The Proud Koh Yor

As a bonus, I would like to recommend The Proud Koh Yor. It is located in Songkhla, about 30 minutes' drive from Hat Yai town centre. It is a stunning restaurant perched atop a hill. A scenic lift whisked us up from the parking lot to this breathtaking vantage point, where panoramic views of the rolling hills and the sparkling sea unfolded before us. 

The Proud Koh Yor - a stunning restaurant perched atop a hill

Floor-to-ceiling glass panels offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, creating a truly immersive dining experience.

Admire breathtaking views of the hills and sea while you dine.

Dine amidst breathtaking vistas of the hills and the sea.

We enjoyed a selection of delicious snacks and drinks, keeping our appetites satisfied until dinnertime.

Delectable drinks we ordered.... 

Crab meat munchies.... 

Thai Tea Toast

Thai Crab Meat Laksa

Nutella Pizza 

Note: The eateries featured here are non-halal. If you're looking for halal options, I recommend exploring the many Muslim-owned restaurants and stalls throughout the city. Also check out my other blog post HERE.

Thirsty? We got you covered. :)

Acknowledgements:

A heartfelt Khop Khun Mag to Khun Mai, Khun Aou, Khun Beau, and Khun Nongyao from the Tourism Authority of Thailand for making this incredible trip possible. Your warm hospitality truly exemplifies the legendary Thai spirit. Thank you to our tour guide Khun M, for sharing your incredible knowledge of Hat Yai with us, and for going the extra mile to ensure we had a wonderful time.

To my amazing travel companions, Dixon and Ramya, you made this journey truly unforgettable. You're the best!