Tea Travels

Where to Eat at Khao Yai: Restaurants & Night Markets | Thailand

February 11, 2026

Khao Yai’s food scene includes everything from traditional Thai restaurants and local eateries to charming dessert cafés and bustling night markets. Despite being a small town where many shops close early, Khao Yai still offers plenty of great places to eat for visitors. Travellers can enjoy authentic Thai food, desserts, and local street food at popular night markets throughout the area. This food guide features recommended Thai restaurants, dessert places, and local night markets, helping you discover the best places to eat in Khao Yai during your visit.

1. Penlaos Khao Yai

Penlaos serves authentic Isaan (Thai–Laos) cuisine, with catfish as its speciality. Popular dishes include catfish soup and stir-fried catfish, though we chose the catfish salad, which was refreshing and full of flavour. The menu also features classic Isaan sausages. The sour, tangy taste typical of Isaan food helps stimulate the appetite and pairs well with the bold flavours.

Address: 56 หมู่ที่ 17 Thanaratch Rd, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30450, Thailand

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday – 9.30am to 5.30pm; Friday and Saturday until 7.30pm; Sunday until 6.30pm

Menu here

2. Krua Kampan

Krua Kampan is a well-known local restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine at affordable prices. The menu focuses on classic home-style dishes with bold flavours, making it a favourite among locals. It is located right next to a scenic paddy field, offering a peaceful dining atmosphere. The curry dishes are a must-try when visiting. However, if you have a sensitive stomach, it is best to avoid the raw seafood dishes.

Address: GC8J+QJJ, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand

Opening hours: Every day, 9am to 9pm

Menu here

3. Mu Si Local Market

I visited this place twice because the salt-baked fish is exceptionally good. Infused with the aroma of lemongrass and other herbs, the dish is both flavorful and fragrant. It costs only 150 THB. This night market is truly underrated, mostly frequented by locals, making it a genuine hidden gem worth visiting.

Address: G9MC+PFM, Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand

Opening hours: Every day, 4pm to 8.30pm

4. The Chocolate Factory Khao Yai

We ordered a chocolate lava cake along with several chocolate drinks, all of which had rich and smooth chocolate flavours. One common misconception about this place is that it has an on-site chocolate factory. While it does have both a retail store and a restaurant, the chocolates are not produced here, nor is cocoa grown on the premises.