Dining in Krabi
Southern Thai cuisine features many more curries than its northern and central plains cousins and reflects a marked Malaysian and Indian influence in its cuisine. Dining outside of tourist areas is a fast and pleasurable way to find out more about the local culture.
In Krabi restaurants, dishes include the must-try 'geng massaman', a fragrant saffron-coloured curry with peanuts and sweet potatoes and the Thai-Muslim version of a chicken biryani, 'khao mok gai'. Of course, given the amount of top-end hotels in the region, fine dining is another option and from the sublime to the hamburger, Ao Nang is home to both a Burger King and a MacDonald's.
What to Eat
Southern Thai curries are a real treat and are laughably cheap. Eating local is a great way to make Thai friends and to learn about the region's culture. Local markets are also a good way of discovering exotic fruit and snacks while street food stands are also surprisingly cheap and tasty.
If your tastes are more western leaning then the whole gamut from pizza to pasta can be had in Ao Nang. This being a coastal region means that freshly caught seafood is a must try and it's as easy to find a seafood dish in Krabi as pizza in Rome.
Where to Eat
For genuine southern Thai dining try the night market in Krabi Town. Situated riverside by the pier, the market itself sells fresh fruit and while food stands and nearby restaurants offer more substantial fare. In the town centre there is also a wide choice of restaurants.
Likewise, the night market between Ao Nang and Nopparatthara is another decent place for local cuisine. Ao Nang and Phi Phi are very similar culinary wise as both locations offer both western and Thai food. Prices are elevated by Thai standards but for most visitors restaurant bills are remarkably cheap. (Read more...)
