Kanchanaburi, a little town located in the west of Thailand, may not be as popular as Bangkok or Chiang Mai. However, if you want to experience the local culture and food, Kanchanaburi should not be missed. the culinary scene may not be as sophisticated as in Thailand’s metropolises, but the true taste of the nation is revealed in every dish. Here are 10 of the best restaurants to try.
On's Thai Issan
On’s Thai Issan offers an amazing array of meat-free regional food and a cooking school. It’s possible to choose three dishes from the menu to learn to make. Don’t worry if you’re no Gordon Ramsay, the teacher here is patient, friendly, and a master in the kitchen.
Without any fancy decoration, Nut’s wins its reputation by serving high-quality regional dishes. Everything is freshly cooked, spice is optional, and you can even request creations that are not shown on the menu if the ingredients are available. There are plenty of different dishes on offer, and it’s possible to mix and match a real Siamese smorgasbord from the menu. Oh, and don’t forget to order the signature Thai Curry, it’s fantastic.
Mangosteen Garden Restaurant
Restaurant, Thai
One purpose of travelling is to experience different cultures, and there is arguably no better way to do that than by trying out traditional dishes in a local restaurant. Mangosteen Garden Restaurant is known for making some of the best Thai food in Kanchanaburi. There is a large range of aromatic street food, simple and earthy, presenting the true taste of Thailand. There’s also an extensive international menu available to those who want to try out some other Southeast Asian cuisines.
Meat & Cheese offers a change from Thai cusine. If you fancy an Italian pizza or an all-American steak give it a try. From t-bone to fillet, all crispy and caramelised on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside, to cheese-topped pizza and fries, Meat & Cheese has it all. And if you still want to add a dash of the old Siam to your meal, try the steamed bass served piping from the grill.
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The Hut
The Hut is a local restaurant that offers Western cuisine like garlic bread, nuggets, spaghetti and steak at great prices. A world apart from upscale chain restaurants, The Hut is a small, welcoming venue with just six tables, providing a relaxed atmosphere for friends and families to chill in while enjoying tasty dishes. While The Hut might be celebrated for its laid-back vibe, the food and friendly staff are sure to leave an impression!
Travellers often find the heady mix of Thai spices and seasoning hard to handle. However, if you want to make your own Thai food, they are essential to your dishes, just as the cookery classes with the masterful chefs at Blue Rice will demonstrate. You will be given a chance to go to local market and explore the different ingredients and street foods on offer, while those not so keen on trying their hand at the stove can settle in for a range of classic Thai treats served with a perfect view of the river bank.
Paris Kan
As the name suggests, this restaurant has at least a dash of the Francophone. Indeed, the chef is from France but don’t worry, he can also cook delicious Thai food. There are around 20 choices on the menu in total, half of which hail from Europ, steak and fries for example, while the remaining portion is Southeast Asian through-and-through, massaman curry, pad Thai. The waiting time may be a bit long, but the food really is worth it.
Address: Paris Kan, 232/4, Mae Nam Kwai Road, Kanchanaburi, Thailand, +66 34512572
Mangosteen Cafe and Books
Restaurant, Asian, Thai
This charming little place is closely related to the Mangosteen Garden Restaurant. Actually the two are related by marriage, one run by the husband and the other by the wife. Mangosteen Cafe and Books provides stable WiFi and a relaxing place to read to its diners, along with a cooling air-conditioning system, some great scenery and a whole range of mouth-watering Thai staples.
Keeree Tara
Restaurant, Thai
Dining on a floating restaurant on the River Kwai and admiring the picturesque scenery over the iconic bridge of Kanchanaburi is a unique experience that should’nt be missed when travelling to this corner of western Thailand. Dim light, live music, rustic wooden benches and chairs combine to create an enthralling atmosphere that’s great for couples. Keeree Tara serves up traditional and yummy Thai cuisine, like green chicken curry and baked shrimp with vermicelli.
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