Thailand’s globally beloved culinary scene offers a selection of flavours that go beyond your typical dishes. Explore a variety of hidden gems outside of Pad Thai and mango sticky rice, with cuisine inspired by the land and sea.

Yam Nua (Beef Salad)

Venture away from the popular classics and order this delicious alternative of a spicy Thai mango salad, with tenderloin beef strips tossed in classic Thai herbs, garlic, chilli, and soaked in a generous amount of lime juice and fish sauce.

Massaman Curry 

While claims of its origins range from royal courts to Middle Eastern traders, the curry shares more similarities to South Asian cuisine spiced with cinnamon and cardamon than traditional Thai fare. This delightfully spicy dish typically consists of braised meat, usually chicken, simmered in the aromatic spices and signature Massaman curry paste.

For those grabbing lunch at one of the many Hua Hin restaurants along the coast, Rim Nam, located in Anantara Hua Hin Resort, offers a classic rendition of the dish, paired with soft sweet potatoes.

Roozitaa, Making chicken massaman curry (2), CC BY-SA 4.0

Kao Kha Moo (Braised Pork)

A staple at night markets and street food stalls, braised pork belly is stewed in a rich, flavourful broth with star anise, garlic, and soy sauce. The juicy cuts of meat are served on a bed of rice, accompanied by a soft-boiled egg with a runny yolk and pickled vegetables.

Hor Mok Ma Prow Awn (Seafood Curries in Coconut)

Dig into a soulful curry packed into a hollowed-out coconut, with this unique culinary experience. Prawn, squid and similar seafood are cooked in a creamy coconut milk base, infused with red curry paste and fragrant vegetables like kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass.

Pla Kapung Neung Manao (Steamed Lime Fish)

Finally, dive further into the world of Thai seafood with Pla Kapung Neung Manao. Delicate, fluffy steamed fish, typically snapper or sea bass, is flavoured to showcase the simple freshness of the catch. Seasoned with the classic Thai combo of garlic, chilli and cilantro, and doused in lime juice, “steamed lime fish” is best enjoyed with a serving of fragrant jasmine rice.